New York – Korean President And Local Rabbi Celebrate Fifty Years Of Diplomacy Between Israel And Korea

New York – A Prominent Manhattan rabbi known for his work on behalf of religious freedom and human rights for almost fifty years was in Korea last week at a commemorative event celebrating half a century of diplomatic relations between Israel and South Korea.

Rabbi Arthur Schneier was invited by South Korean President Lee Myung-bak for a private luncheon on May 3rd at the Blue House, the executive office and residence of the country’s president, with kosher food provided by the local chabad house. Also present at the luncheon were Dr. Sang Him Lee, South Korea’s First Vice Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Tuvia Israeli, Israel’s Ambassador to Korea, Korean First Lady, Kim Yoon-ok and Rabbi Schneier’s wife, Elisabeth Schneier.

Korean President Lee was honored this past September with the World Statesman Award by the Appeal of Conscience Foundation for his efforts to revitalize Korea. Rabbi Schneier is the founder and president of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation.

“The Korea of today is a miracle,” Rabbi Schneier told VIN News. “It has emerged from being a recipient of aid to a donor nation. I had the opportunity during my time in Korea to visit the demilitarized zone and see firsthand the stark contrast between freedom and persecution.”

Both Israel and South Korea gained their independence in 1948 and diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 1962. According to Rabbi Schneier there are many similarities between the countries.

“Just as Israel is surrounded by very real threats from other countries, Korea and its people have faced threats from major world powers including Japan, China and Russia,” said Rabbi Schneier. “I also had the privilege of addressing hundreds of students at an Ivy League school in Seoul, Yonsei University and it was clear that, much like in Israel, the emphasis is on education and creativity.”

In addition to his work with the Appeal of Conscience Foundation, Rabbi Schneier, a holocaust survivor, is also the Senior Rabbi at Park East Synagogue and dean and founder of the Park East Day School, both located in Manhattan.