Millions of people across continents tuned in to witness, and often celebrate, the change of power that took place in a nation long looked to for its leadership. When we asked Koreans and Korean Americans living abroad to describe what the future might be like under an Obama-led U.S., they used words like hope, collectivism, responsibility, accountability, transformation and peace. Here, they elaborate on the view from there.
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Miyon Im, 29
Guildford, United Kingdom
“When Senator Feinstein introduced our 44th president, I couldn’t help myself. I made the smallest fist pump and murmured under my breath, ‘YES!’ I would like our government to set an example for transparency and accountability, two aspects that have been glaringly absent in the past and have caused more damage to our reputation than anything else.”
Ann Kim, 38
Ankara, Turkey
“It is exciting to have an individual who brings new energy to the White House and whose upbringing reflects the global world we live in. I fully expect the next four years to bring changes that will once again show the world America is a great nation.”
Hein Seok, 32
Seoul, South Korea
“I stayed up until 2 a.m. in order to watch the inauguration in Korea. I wanted to witness Obama taking the oath, but more than anything, I wanted to watch Bush leaving the White House. I hope Obama’s presidency will provide an opportunity to once again engage in meaningful dialogue with North Korea .”
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Sam Kim, 28
SÃo Paulo, Brazil
“In my 28 years in this country, I would never have imagined the image of a non-white [U.S.] president on live Brazilian television. In a country where racial inequality is so overwhelming, there is nothing better than to see [this] person commanding the most powerful country in the world.”
Andrew Jo, 27
Kasama, Zambia
“Seeing the enthusiasm of Zambians has been amazing: the way they followed and applauded any [U.S.] election coverage, congratulated me, and believed that change had come, even to this far corner of the world. What I am so proud of is the uniting ideal that President Obama realizes is necessary, that this ideal is channeled, not only across the U.S., but all over the world.”
Brenda Paik Sunoo, 61
Hanoi, Vietnam
“After living as an American expat for six years, it felt great to be rid of shame and political ridicule. Overnight, I received so many ‘congratulations’ from Vietnamese friends and expats from all over the world. I would like to see Obama further inspire social service and social responsibility among our youth.”
-Compiled by staff
