The closing exchange at President Obama’s press conference today in Seoul:
THE PRESIDENT: I feel obliged to take maybe one question from the Korean press — since you guys have been such excellent hosts. Anybody? This gentleman right here — he’s got his hand up. He’s the only one who took me up on it. Go ahead. And I’ll probably need a translation, though, if you’re asking the question in Korean. In fact, I definitely will need a translation. (Laughter.)
REPORTER: Unfortunately, I hate to disappoint you, President Obama, I’m actually Chinese. (Laughter.)
THE PRESIDENT: Well, it’s wonderful to see you.
REPORTER: But I think I get to represent the entire Asia.
THE PRESIDENT: Absolutely.
REPORTER: We’re one family here in this part of the world.
THE PRESIDENT: Well, your English is better than my Mandarin also. (Laughter.) But — now, in fairness, though, I did say that I was going to let the Korean press ask a question. So I think that you held up your hand anyway.
REPORTER: How about will my Korean friends allow me to ask a question on your behalf? Yes or no?
THE PRESIDENT: Well, it depends on whether there’s a Korean reporter who would rather have the question. No, no takers?
(Inaudible.)
THE PRESIDENT: This is getting more complicated than I expected. (Laughter.)
REPORTER: Take quick, one question from an Asian, President Obama.
THE PRESIDENT: Well, the — as I said, I was going to — go ahead and ask your question, but I want to make sure that the Korean press gets a question as well.