Ottawa, February 8, 2013 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement recognizing the celebration of Korean New Year:
“Korean New Year, also known as Seollal, is a time to reflect on the past, look optimistically to the future, and recognize good fortune. People of Korean origin observe this holiday – the most important of the traditional Korean holidays – by paying their respects to elders and ancestors, visiting family and friends, and playing traditional folk games.
“This year we enter the Year of the Snake, which is a symbol of wisdom, intelligence and gracefulness.
“For Korean Canadians, 2013 is a particularly special year as it has been designated the Year of Korea in Canada. A number of events will take place across the country throughout this year to mark Canada’s 50 years of bilateral relations with the Republic of Korea, to highlight Korean culture, and to celebrate the contributions of the Korean community to Canadian society.
“As Prime Minister Harper has said, the Year of Korea in Canada ‘will showcase Korea’s remarkable culture and traditions and highlight the vibrant relationship our two countries enjoy.’
“As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I extend my best wishes to those celebrating Korean New Year and encourage all Canadians to take part in Year of Korea in Canada activities this year. I hope that the Year of the Snake will be a year of health, wealth and good fortune for everyone.”
For further information (media only), please contact:
Alexis Pavlich
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada’s economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.
