Honourable senators, I rise today in celebration of the second annual Korean Heritage Month in Canada. Thanks to the co‑sponsors, Senators Amina Gerba, Rebecca Patterson and Hassan Yussuff, and to all honourable senators for the unanimous adoption of our Senate motion — which was on June 4, 2024 — October 2024 marked the official launch of the inaugural Korean Heritage Month in Canada.

In continuation of this important recognition, we will gather once again this year for the second annual Korea Day on the Hill flag-raising ceremony on Parliament Hill, taking place next Wednesday, October 8, at 12:30 p.m. It will be followed by an evening reception of K-food, K-culture and K-spirit in the Sir John A. Macdonald Building. I invite all honourable colleagues to attend both events.

The month of October also holds deep cultural and historical significance for the Korean-Canadian community. October 3, known as Gaecheonjeol, or National Foundation Day, is a day that celebrates the origin and thousands of years of history of Korea. October 6 will be Chuseok, or Korean Thanksgiving, one of the most important family traditions in Korea, across Canada and around the world.

It is fitting that this deeply rooted heritage is honoured during a month in which we also reflect on the evolving and dynamic Canada-Korea relationship. This year we mark two significant milestones in that relationship. First, we begin the observance of the seventy-fifth anniversary of the Korean War years, a time to honour the courage and sacrifice of all those who fought in the Korean War. Second, we mark the tenth anniversary of the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement, a landmark accord that has not only strengthened our economic ties, but also deepened cultural, educational and person-to-person connections. What began as a trade agreement has grown into a comprehensive, strategic partnership that reflects mutual respect, shared prosperity and cultural exchange.

Across the globe, the Korean diaspora has flourished, and Canada is home to a dynamic, diverse and growing Korean-Canadian population. The community has made exceptional contributions across a wide range of sectors from business, technology and academia to arts, culture and public service. Korean-Canadian entrepreneurs, creators and leaders continue to help shape Canada’s future, fuelling innovation, strengthening communities and enhancing our national identity.

Honourable senators, I stand before you today as a proud daughter of Korea and Canada. I am humbled to celebrate the community that raised me, shaped me and continues to inspire me. So, happy Korean Heritage Month.