Hak Ja Han
November 13, 1981
Seoul, Korea
Given at a reception for women during the Science Conference
I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for coming to my country in the orient. Reverend Moon and I have wanted to bring you to our homeland for a long time. For ten years, we have thought about this. We discussed many things that we wanted to show you and do for you. It is very meaningful that you have come, and I am so grateful to all of you.
Traditionally, Korean people like to wear white suits and dresses. Korean people love God very deeply, and so we like to wear white clothes as a symbol of God's purity. We respect our ancestors very much, and we are a peace-loving people.
Hundreds of times, other countries have invaded ours, but we always overcame. And in our 5,000-year history, Korea has never attacked another nation. For this reason, we are known as "The Land of the Morning Calm."
During the Korean War, we suffered incredible tragedy. But God really helped us. The young people of 16 nations came to our aid. At that time, all the people of South Korea strongly united with the United Nation- forces. With that unity, we were able to save our freedom from communism.
From the 1970's on, our people have been working very hard. Today Korea is recognized as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Because of our growth, Korea was chosen as the site of the 1988 Olympics. We are grateful to be the host country for this global event.
They say that behind every great man, there is a woman. In this sense, I respect you all very much. You have helped your husbands create many things to help mankind.
I also try to be a wonderful helper for my husband, Reverend Moon. But it is hard, because, as you know, his ideals and goals are very high. Sometimes I wonder how good a job I am doing to help my husband. I never get a report card. If you have a chance to ask him, please do so, and let me know his answer!
Anyhow, I gave him twelve lovely children, so I hope he will give me one medal at least.
In Korean history we have had many wonderful women who have been greatly respected. They gave honor to their families. During times when Korea was attacked by other countries, many women gave their lives helping their husbands fight.
Today, the world situation is becoming dark. Many families are breaking up. My heart is to sad to see this. I think women must give love and practice a sacrificial spirit. When God dwells in every home, then parents and children will have God's love and hope. With families as the cornerstone of society, then our nations and world will become very beautiful and filled with God's love. We will all be one family under one God.
Today, you and your husbands came here to combine all of your spirit and strength to build a better world for our children.
I hope I can become closer to you all. I want to share love and friendship with you, even after you go back to your own countries.
I hope your time in our country will be remembered with joy all your life.
Thank you very much.