The sapling was presented during a summit meeting with President Park Geun-hye at Cheong Wa Dae, with a message which says that the American people have “deep sympathy for the families and loved ones of those who perished in this tragedy.”
Of 476 passengers and crew on board, 325 were students from the high school. The students, accompanied by 14 teachers, were on a field trip to Jeju Island.
Obama also handed Park a Stars and Stripes with a written message which says: "This American flag was flew over the White House the same day that so many lost their lives aboard the ferry Sewol."
"The flag is presented to President Park and the people of the Republic of Korea on behalf of the American people. It reflects our deep condolences, our solidarity with you at this difficult time, and our great pride in calling you an ally and friend," it says. The Republic of Korea is the official name of South Korea.
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