It was a great experience to have our baby born in Korea.  We were so impressed with the level of service and care we received at the hospital.  We are extremely grateful to Dr. Linton, the head of Severance Hospital, Dr. Cho, our obstetrician, and the entire team at Yonsei-Severance.  They are wonderful medical professionals that allowed us to have a fantastic experience.

Sejun’s full name is James William Sejun Lippert.  James and William are the names of both my father and my wife’s grandfather.  We had not wanted to know the baby’s gender in advance to keep it a surprise!  We had a feeling that the baby was a girl so we had not thought of many boys’ names, but knew that, regardless of a boy or a girl, we wanted our child to have a Korean middle name – as a special part of his or her history here in the Republic of Korea.  

While we were expecting, we had thought of possible Korean names and we shared possible ideas with Korean friends here in Seoul to get their thoughts and advice.  Talking with some Korean friends over dinner, they mentioned the “saju” process.  We liked the idea and after consulting with a “saju” specialist, we were given three possible names and our baby’s fortune. The name Sejun seemed just right.  We liked the meaning, the Chinese characters, the Hangeul, and the way the name sounded.  In fact, my wife and I -- and everyone -- are calling him by his Korean name, Sejun (except maybe Grigsby who “talks” to Sejun by barking, wagging his tail and trying to sniff him).


Of course “big brother” Grigsby helped to welcome the new family member to our home.  Grigsby is always sniffing the baby and wagging his tail. He is very curious about the baby.  Robyn is also doing well.  The Korean Army Chief of Staff and his wife gave us some seaweed which is sure to be helpful in the recovery process.  We have found a Korean helper to assist us with the baby.  She speaks English, Korean and Chinese.  She is helping train us as new parents, teaching us some Korean customs and speaking to Sejun in Korean.  She is highly qualified, detailed and rigorous -- she keeps us running a tight ship.


We are thrilled with all of the well wishes we have received for our family.  Thanks to all the Koreans who have posted their kind messages for us on Facebook and Twitter.  We were also thrilled to get a note wishing us well from Senator Leahy who represents the state of Vermont and is the most senior Senator.  Robyn and I met while working for him, so it was lovely to hear from him and be reminded of those days.

Robyn’s mom will be coming to Seoul soon. We look forward to introducing her to Sejun and to Korea.