Mr. Choi Kyoo-ok

Accomplishments or support for the ROK-U.S. Alliance:

Chairman Choi Kyoo-ok is making significant contributions to the enhancement of ROK-U.S. alliance through Osstem Implant. His efforts are notable in the economic, medical, and technological fields, leading to the strengthening of the ROK-U.S. alliance. In economic terms, Chairman Choi has been solidifying bilateral economic cooperation through continuous investment and job creation in the United States. Since establishing the first production facility in Philadelphia, of Pennsylvania in 2007, he has steadily expanded its scale. In 2022, a major expansion was implemented, resulting in a production base of approximately 4,700 square meters. Currently, 423 local employees are working in the U.S., and this is considered an exemplary case of ROK-U.S. economic cooperation leading to substantial job creation. In the medical field, he has established himself as a leader in technology exchange between Korea and the U.S. Since 2007, he has been operating a clinical education program to transfer Korea’s advanced implant technology to American dentists, contributing to the improvement of dental care standards in the U.S. Notably, the ‘Hiossen World Meeting’ held in Los Angeles in 2015 was attended by 1,000 dentists from 27 countries worldwide. This continued with the recent ‘Osstem World Meeting’ in Seoul in 2024, creating a forum for international dental academic exchange. Furthermore, he is strengthening technological cooperation between the two countries by expanding R&D personnel in the U.S. Since 2008, in collaboration with the Department of Community & Economic Development, he has increased the recruitment of local R&D personnel, which has become a catalyst for promoting technological convergence and innovation between ROK and the U.S. These efforts are leading to improved technological competitiveness of both countries, contributing to enhancing the status of both companies in the global market. In recognition of these contributions, Osstem Implant received the ‘President’s ‘E’ Awards’ from the President of the U.S. Biden in June 2023. This is the highest honor awarded to companies that have contributed to increasing U.S. exports, officially recognizing that Osstem Implant’s activities are significantly contributing to bilateral economic cooperation and strengthening the alliance between Korea and the U.S. Furthermore, leveraging his experience serving as KATUSA (Korean Augmentation to the United States Army) from 1982 to 1985, he has been actively supporting U.S. Forces Korea. In recognition of his contributions to the U.S. military community, in 2021 he was awarded the 8A SSG Kim, Sang-Won Distinguished Former KATUSA Award (8th Army KATUSA Hall of Fame), presented by the Commanding General of the Eighth United States Army, acknowledging Chairman Choi’s contributions to the U.S. military community. Chairman Choi is also working to promote the friendship between the two nations through corporate social responsibility activities. He supports free implant procedures for vulnerable social groups in the U.S. and promotes Korean culture through sponsorship of local community events, fostering cultural exchange between the two countries. This contributes to strengthening the alliance beyond the economic and technological fields. Chairman Choi, Kyoo-ok is contributing to the strengthening of the alliance in various aspects and playing an important role in developing bilateral relations as a civilian diplomat. His ongoing efforts are expected to brighten the future of the ROK-U.S. alliance, and he is to continue making significant contributions to the development of relations between the two countries.

Volunteer efforts:

Chairman Choi, Kyoo-ok is demonstrating exemplary leadership to contribute to society and through various volunteer activities it extends beyond business success to positively impact communities in both Korea and the United States. These qualities are expected to make even greater contributions to strengthening the ROK-U.S. alliance and advancing international society.

In Korea, he is improving the quality of life for those in medical blind spots through free dental implant support programs for vulnerable groups. An agreement signed with Haeundae-gu, Busan in October 2023 provides implant surgery funding for local residents who had given up treatment due to financial difficulties. This goes beyond mere medical support, leading to restored self-esteem and increased social participation for vulnerable groups. Additionally, he is fostering coexistence with local communities by donating oral care products to the Haeundae-gu office and sponsoring local festivals. These activities are raising awareness of corporate social responsibility and strengthening community cohesion.

He is also actively engaged in volunteer work to improve the welfare for people with disabilities. In December 2023, in collaboration with KCC Glass, he participated in renovating the aged facilities of “Tree of Dreams House,” a residential facility for people with disabilities in Ilsan, Gyeonggi-do. This enabled 25 residents with disabilities to live in an improved environment, raising awareness about the need for attention and support for vulnerable groups in society.

Overseas, he is conducting various volunteer activities. In July 2023, he visited the “SOS Children’s Village” in Haiphong, Vietnam, providing oral health education and donating toothbrushing kits and school supplies to children in need. This contributes to improving health and expanding educational opportunities for children in developing countries. Similar activities in the Philippines, where he visited local child welfare facilities to conduct oral health education and donate necessities, serve as exemplary cases of global corporate social responsibility by Korean companies, enhancing Korea’s image in the international community.

The impact on American society is also noteworthy. Osstem Implant’s U.S. subsidiary supports free dental implant procedures for local vulnerable groups, providing tangible help to those marginalized in the U.S. healthcare system and fostering positive perceptions of Korean companies’ social responsibility. Furthermore, free clinical education programs for U.S. dentists contribute to the advancement of dental medical technology in the U.S. and promote medical technology exchange between Korea and the U.S.

He actively participates in global disaster relief efforts. During the February 2023 earthquake in Turkiye, he cooperated with local dental associations to donate relief funds to the most affected areas and provided support to affected local employees, demonstrating the responsibility of a global company as a member of the international community. Beyond medical volunteering, he is striving to promote international goodwill through cultural exchange. In May 2023, he officially sponsored the “14th Baek Moon-Jong Cup International Taekwondo Championship” in Uzbekistan, contributing to the spread of Korean culture and fostering bilateral friendship. This serves as a good example of cultural exchange through sports, helping to enhance Korea’s soft power.

These diverse volunteer activities are creating significant ripples both domestically and internationally. In Korea, they are raising awareness about corporate social responsibility and highlighting the importance of supporting vulnerable groups. Overseas, they are forming a positive image of Korea and Korean companies, contributing to elevating Korea’s status in the international community. Particularly, activities in the United States are playing a role in civilian diplomacy, further solidifying the friendly relations between Korea and the U.S.

Short biography:

Chairman Choi, Kyoo-ok, born on May 10, 1960, in Cheonan, has built a distinguished career in dentistry and business. He served US army for KATUSA (Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army) from 1982 to 1984. After graduating from Seoul National University’s School of Dentistry, he completed advanced degrees at Dankook and Korea Universities. His academic background laid the foundation for his future innovations in dentistry. Beginning his career as a dentist in 1991, Dr. Choi gained valuable clinical experience, which led to the establishment of Osstem Implant in 1997. This venture positioned him as a pioneer in Korea’s implant industry. His concurrent role as director of Apsun Dental Hospital from 2001 further enhanced his clinical expertise, contributing to the development of practical and innovative implant products. Dr. Choi’s influence extends beyond business into academia and industry. He has held professorships at Korea University and leadership positions in various industry associations, fostering industry-academic cooperation and sharing his expertise widely. His achievements have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Korean Management Award (2003) and the Industrial Service Medal at the Venture Business Awards (2006). Notably, his selection as a ‘Science and Technology Figure to Admire and Aspire to Be’ in 2007 acknowledged his innovative entrepreneurship and contributions to scientific advancement. As Chairman of Osstem Implant, Dr. Choi continues to lead global business expansion and technological innovation. He has spearheaded the company’s entry into the U.S. market, establishing production facilities in Philadelphia in 2007. Through international academic conferences and education programs for overseas medical professionals, he actively promotes global medical technology exchange, strengthening ROK-U.S. economic cooperation and advancing the field of dentistry worldwide.

Statement from the nominator about the nominee’s qualities:

Chairman Choi, Kyoo-ok, is a leader with outstanding entrepreneurial spirit, passion for the ROK-U.S. alliance, and diverse qualities that can contribute to the ROK-U.S. alliance. His entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his management philosophy and social contribution activities, particularly his decision to enter the U.S. market, which was aimed at long-term ROK-U.S. economic cooperation and strengthening the alliance. His passion for the alliance is demonstrated through efforts to promote cooperation in various fields such as economy, healthcare, and culture. Examples include large-scale investments and job creation in the U.S. and facilitating technology and knowledge exchange between the two countries. Based on his experience as a KATUSA (Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army) from 1982 to 1984, Chairman Choi is planning support projects for Korean War veterans. This is part of his effort to remind people of the historical significance of the ROK-U.S. alliance and convey its value to future generations. His success in the global market through Osstem Implant will contribute to promoting cooperation between ROK and U.S. companies and strengthening economic ties. His transformation from a dentist to a global entrepreneur demonstrates innovative thinking and a spirit of challenge, which will help address new challenges faced by the ROK-US alliance. Chairman Choi’s experience in localizing in the U.S. market, global network, and various social contribution activities are expected to play significant roles in promoting cultural exchange, expanding private diplomatic channels, and pursuing cooperative projects to solve social issues in both countries. With this award, it is believed that Chairman Choi will further strengthen the ROK-U.S. alliance through expanded investment and employment in the U.S. promoting exchange in medical technology, expanding cultural exchange programs, and supporting educational programs for younger-generation leaders.

Mr. KIM Taeup

Accomplishments or support for the ROK-U.S. Alliance:

Army BG(R) Kim Taeup contributed greatly to the ROK-U.S. alliance. During his 33-year military service, he spent more than 15 years working with the U.S. Army and U.N. forces, served as the second Deputy Commanding General of ROK of the ROK-U.S. Combined Division which is the first and unique division in the world, and was the first Deputy Commanding General of ROK of the U.S. Eighth Army, contributing greatly to the defense of the Korean Peninsula and strengthening of the ROK-U.S. military alliance with the U.S. Forces Korea generals at the forefront of the ROK-U.S. alliance. As a POL-MIL Adviser to the Eighth Army, he has been working at the forefront of the ROK-U.S. alliance until today in charge of explaining the situation and political situation of the Korean military and seeking understanding of Korea’s culture to the leaders of the Eighth Army.

Volunteer efforts:

BG(R) Kim Taeup usually volunteers and does a lot of good community service activities. In particular, while working as an advisor to the Korea-US Children’s Culture Association, a volunteer organization for the U.S. Forces in Korea, he has been working since 2021 to make Kimchi making event for U.S. soldiers and their families in November every year, allowing them to experience Korean culture. In addition, he has cooperated with heads of local governments in Pyeongtaek, Asan, and Suwon, which are nearby Humphrey Base, to help U.S. soldiers and their families participate in local government festivals (Hanmaum Festival, Suwon Hwaseong Festival, General Yi Sun-shin Festival, ceramics festival, marathon competition, etc.). He also helps U.S. soldiers and their families minimize the inconvenience in living in Korea as a member of the USO Council, and introduces good Korean culture to U.S. soldiers and their families in consultation with Korean Good Neighbors organizations in the event of US Army ball, he regularly makes donations for African donor organization, Good Neighbor and Doctors Without Borders.

Short biography:

General Kim Taeup graduated from the Korea Military Academy in 1987 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the infantry and served as a major commander and staff member in various parts of the front and rear areas of Korea and abroad area. He spent more than 15 years in the ROK-US alliance field out of 33 years in the military. He served as the first DCG-R of the U.S. Eighth Army, the second DCG-R of the ROK-US Combined Division, and the DC5 of CFC. He served with U.S. soldiers on the battlefield while serving as the MNF-I civil-military operations officer in Iraq, the interpreter officer, and the G3 of the ROK Regiment unit for supporting the Afghanistan War, and served as the PAO of the UNMOGIP(United Nations Military Observers Group in India and Pakistan) HQ when he was a major and the ROK Regiment  Commander of the UNIFIL(United Nation Interim Forces in Lebanon) when he was a colonel. He was the second Korean general to complete the UN’s Senior Leaders Program. He served as a special professor at Seoul Cyber University, the Secretary General of the KDVA-KR, the director of the International Peace Activities Center of the Defense Diplomatic Association, and the advisor to the ROK MND and the Army Headquarters. He completed his master’s degree in international graduate school at Hanseong University, his doctorate in politics at Washington International University, and his degree in chief executive officer at Seoul National University.

Statement from the nominator about the nominee’s qualities:

Not only was BG(R)  Kim Taeup directly dedicated to strengthening the ROK-US alliance, but he is still greatly dedicated to the ROK-US alliance at the cutting edge of the ROK-US alliance as a political and military adviser to the US Eighth Army. When he was active, he contributed greatly to reaching an agreement between Korea and the United States in the areas of Korea-US policy, such as the THAAD conflict and SOFA issues, and he contributed greatly to resolving the conflict through smooth cooperation between the ROK Army and the US Army in the event of a conflict caused by RLFC. During his two years as Secretary General of KDVA-KR, he greatly improved his KDVA membership under the guidance of Chairman Lee Seo-young and contributed greatly to informing the US Junior soldiers of the importance of the ROK-US alliance through the Education Conference. General Kim is confident that he will greatly serve and dedicate himself to the ROK-US alliance field in the future.

Mr. Philip Mok

Accomplishments or support for the ROK-U.S. Alliance:

Assisted in the development of the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) while interning in Hon. Lee KeJin’s office (2007). As Campaign Coordinator for Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, solicited support of Korean Veteran community for volunteers (2010).  Founding member of Kollaboration DC, which highlights Korean and other Asian talent to mainstream audiences.  Named as Korean American Leader in the Public Sector by Korean Consulate General in NYC (2013).  Supported Korean & U.S. Veterans while serving as Korean Community Liaison for NY Senator Toby Ann Stavisky (2012-2014). Support ROK-U.S. Alliance through active participation in Society of American Military Engineers (SAME), which supports military engineering worldwide.

Volunteer efforts:

Founding Board Member, Kollaboration DC (12/09-4/11); Social Media Specialist, Kollaboration Houston (2/12-5/12); VP of Communications, COMTO New York (12/16-6/18); VP of Publicity, Society of American Military Engineers NYC Post (1/20-1/22); Mentor Hawaii Committee Member, Chamber of Commerce Hawaii Young Professionals (7/23-7/24); Web Manager, SAME Honolulu Post (1/24-Pres.); Startup Mentor, Blue Startups (2/24-Pres.); Virtual Professional-in-Residence (VPIR), Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (4/24-Pres.); Board Member, COMTO Hawaii (6/24-Pres.); and VP, Western Region, SAVE International (6/24-Pres.)

Short biography:

Phil Yong Soo Mok was born in Baltimore, Maryland to parents James Jinsu & Christine Eunjoo Mok, both Korean Americans who came to the U.S. at an early age to pursue the American Dream. James’ father had served in the Korean War, and Christine was adopted by an American GI. He knows that the Republic of Korea would not exist without the U.S.-ROK Alliance and has dedicated parts of his career to furthering that Alliance. Phil received his Bachelor’s in Government & Politics from the University of Maryland with a specialization in East Asian relations, and studied at Korea University’s International Summer Campus in 2007, where he interned at the Office of ROK National Assemblyman Kejin Lee, who was on the Assembly Culture and Tourism Committee, and Chairman of the Agriculture, Forestry, and Maritime Committee. Thanks to the KORUS FTA, goods and services trade between the two countries total $200 billion annually. Phil then worked for Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley and New York State Senator Toby Stavisky in Korean community outreach roles, and worked in an advisory role for Korean outreach on political campaigns. He currently resides in Honolulu, Hawaii, with his wife Andriani, and works for AECOM, a Fortune 500 infrastructure consulting firm as a Project Manager on projects in Hawaii, Guam, Korea, and Japan.

Statement from the nominator about the nominee’s qualities:

If selected for this Honor, I will continue to do my best to contribute further to the ROK-U.S. Alliance by first publishing that I was chosen for this Honor to my social media (15,650 LinkedIn connections,  4600 Facebook followers, ~1200 Instagram) and Honolulu Korean-language media, urging all those who support the Alliance, democracy, a free and open Indo-Pacific, and the rules-based international order to join KDVA.  I will continue my steadfast support of the Alliance by contributing to events that will further the relationship between the two nations and their peoples. In addition, I will create connections between my colleagues in Congress (ex. Rep. Grace Meng), the ROK National Assembly, and Korean Consulate General in Honolulu and supporting formal engagements between the two nations, for example joint declarations, military exercises, joint bases like the one announced in Japan. I will support commerce between the two nations using my connections at Blue Startups and University of Hawaii’s Shidler School of Business.

Mr. John Sagan

Accomplishments or support for the ROK-U.S. Alliance:

Mr. John Sagan is a Korean War Veteran.

Volunteer efforts:

Volunteers at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and his church.

Short biography:

John Paul Sagan was born 12-17-1931 along with his twin sister, to immigrants of Poland. He grew up in an average farm family with 13 children on an 80-acre farm in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. He only finished 9 grades of school, in order to run the farm, then worked in abatement. One month after turning 20, he was drafted first going to Fort Jackson for a short basic training, then he went to Camp Louis in Washington state. He left there on a troop ship, arriving in Japan for gear issue, then to Incheon, South Korea. He trucked, then walked to Pork Chop Hill. In the 2d Infantry Division, 38^th Infantry, Company D, they fought against constant mortaring, traveling to Old Baldy, then T Bone Hill. Throughout this journey, his troop were accompanied by two Korean Soldiers, twice his age. He says they spoke English, helped them get to the next hill, but mostly tried to reassure them that they were going to make it home. Without the support and encouragement of those two Korean officers, they would not of made it through the war. He turned 21 at T Bone Hill and was still there when the Armistice was signed. He came home to marry Lois and have four amazing children. He was one of the first police officers in Oak Creek, WI, and bought a bar & restaurant with his wife. We lost Lois 14 years ago, but we still have the bar. He still owns two properties that he takes care of, he is a devoted Chistian, friend, and member of the legion. He has helped countless people throughout the years and continues to do that. I was gifted the chance to accompany him on an Honor Flight last year at the age of 91! I cannot express the appreciation that I have for my father – a great man, selfless, defender, and contributor to all.

Statement from the nominator about the nominee’s qualities: 

John Paul Sagan was never angry, like so many that were drafted seem to be. As hard as it was to leave his family and the safety of the farm, he was, and still is, ready for whatever anyone asks of him. Besides his work ethics, he is strong for his family, friends, and fellow Veterans. He belongs to the local VFW, and though all of the other men served in Vietnam or later, he considers them equal … and family. He helps out with events, and if not physically, then with donations to help get the job done. He received the Korean War medal from the Korean Embassy, that he shows off proudly. He truly would like to go back to Korea next year, so I will do whatever I need to make that trip possible!

Major General Richard Appelhans

Accomplishments or support for the ROK-U.S. Alliance:

Rick served as the Assistant Chief of Staff, J2, and Deputy Assistant Chief of Staff, C2 in UNC, CFC, and USFK from 9 June 2021 to 19 June 2023. During this period, Rick led 352 military, civilian, and contractor intelligence professionals executing combined and joint intelligence amid an unprecedented sequence of provocations and challenges by North Korea. His leadership was critical in focusing the intelligence’s predictive characterization of North Korea’s ballistic missile launches, UAV incursions, development of cruise missile capabilities, and preparation for a seventh nuclear weapons test. This provided the Commander with the critical information to execute a variety of response options and dominate the information domain. He drove a ground-breaking transformation of intelligence exercise support from COMBINED COMMAND POST TRAINING events into theater-level field exercises after a five-year hiatus. Under his innovative and inspirational leadership, the integration of combined intelligence was expanded with the historic transition and relocation of intelligence operations from Yongsan Garrison to Camp Humphreys. Finally, Rick pioneered the Regional Fusion Cell concept, advancing on-Peninsula and off-Peninsula intelligence capabilities to ensure the current and future commanders will be able to deter adversary threats during Armistice, and, if deterrence fails, effectively neutralize threats.

Volunteer efforts:

Although not volunteer work, Rick was a servant leader always cognizant that the personnel that served under him was his most precious resource. He secured the intelligence mission by prioritizing the advancement of quality-of-life concerns of both the military and civilian work forces. He was able to do this by increasing the quality and quantity of senior leader engagements and communication with service members, civilians, families, and contractors.

Short biography:

Rick is currently serving as the Commanding General, U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence and Fort Huachuca. Prior to this position, he served as the USFK J2 and CFC Deputy C2. Rick’s overseas assignments and deployments include the Republic of Korea, Kuwait, Germany, the Netherlands, Afghanistan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Iraq. Rick was commissioned as a Distinguished Military Graduate from Central Washington University. He holds a BS in Political Science from Central Washington University and a Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Air War College. In 2023, Rick was awarded the Korea Order of National Security Merit Cheonsu Medal by President Yoon Suk-yeol.

Statement from the nominator about the nominee’s qualities: 

Rick believes the ROK-U.S. Alliance is like no other in the world – forged in blood and grounded in common values and interests. He characterizes it as a pillar of stability and prosperity in Northeast Asia. Furthermore, he considers the combined ROK-U.S. Intelligence Enterprise, grounded in mutual trust and respect, at the forefront of the Alliance. His selfless service and passion to the Alliance and Veterans, was demonstrated through his accomplishments while serving as the USFK J2, and CFC Deputy C2. Rick’s experience while serving in the ROK has served as the foundation that informs his current duties in developing and integrating the most cutting-edge intelligence technologies that will enhance the Alliance’s deterrence and defense capabilities for decades to come. This will ensure the ROK-U.S. Alliance remains the Gold Standard for Intelligence interoperability and sharing. Rick believes in the Korea Defense Veterans Association’s mission, and as a member, plans to support its endeavors to the greatest extent possible.