Mothers praised for great sons

First lady, Kim Yoon-ok, center, poses with swimmer Kim Se-jin, second from left, his adoptive mother, Yang Jeong-suk, right, American football player Hines Ward, left, and his mother, Kim Young-hee, second from right. [YONHAP]

Parents’ Day recognition came early yesterday for two Korean mothers, who were welcomed at the Blue House and praised for their efforts to nurture great sons. British Disability Sports Events National Junior Championships swimming medalist Kim Se-jin, 13, and his adoptive mother, Yang Jeong-suk, and American football player Hines Ward and his Korean mother, Kim Young-hee, had tea with first lady Kim Yoon-ok.

“Both athletes should be grateful for having such great mothers,” Kim was quoted as saying during the meeting. “Children always try to love their parents, but the greatest love comes from their mothers. Love always flows from the top to the bottom, just like water.”

According to the Blue House, the young swimmer recently sent a letter to the first lady, remembering his encounter with her at a marathon last year. The letter prompted the first lady to invite Kim and his mother to the Blue House to have tea with the football player.

By Ser Myo-ja [myoja@joongang.co.kr]