Untitled Document
 On
March 8, Dr. Lee Ae-ran received the “2010 International Women of
Courage Award” from the U.S. Department
of State 미국 국무부. Dr. Lee is the first North Korean escapee to earn a doctoral degree. Currently, she is a professor in the Department
of Food and Nutrition 식품영양조리학과 at Kyungin Women’s College.
The U.S. Department of State gives the award every year on International
Women’s Day, which falls on March 8. The day
was established in 2007 by the former Secretary of State, Condoleezza
Rice, to pay homage to those women
who have contributed the most to improving women’s rights around the
world.
 This year,
a total of 10 women from all around the world received the award.
The award ceremony was held in
Washington D.C. The American First Lady Michelle Obama
and the Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, participated in the ceremony.
Dr. Lee was chosen for her courage and determination. She fled to
South Korea in 1997 in search of freedom and
a new life. She overcame many hardships and became the
first North Korean woman to receive a doctor’s degree. She also worked
hard to help other North Korean escapees.
“She has done so much to empower North Korean women
refugees and to advance women’s issues in
South Korea,” said Mrs. Clinton at the ceremony, praising Dr. Lee.
“She also supports North Korean students
in South Korea by providing them with access to scholarships every month.”
“I was only doing what I was supposed to do for North Korean refugees
in difficult situations,” Dr. Lee said modestly. “I’m flattered
to receive such award, although I have done nothing.”
Congratulations, Dr. Lee!
You are really amazing! We are very proud
of you! |
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