Lee: Vote Actively to Show the People Are Owners of This Country

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has strongly encouraged citizens to participate actively in the upcoming elections, asserting that voting is the ultimate expression of the people's ownership of the nation. He stressed that active participation clearly demonstrates where power should be directed and where the will of the sovereign lies. "I urge you to actively participate in the vote to show that the people are the owners of this country," Lee stated on May 31, just three days before the June 3 local elections. He reiterated the importance of voting, drawing a parallel to the ancient Greek philosopher Plato's assertion that "the price of political apathy is to be ruled by the worst." President Lee warned that in a democratic republic, silence and abstention from voting by the sovereign effectively grant opportunities to those who deceive the public, abuse power for personal gain, and ultimately harm the lives of citizens and their families. He called on voters to identify and support trustworthy and competent individuals who will use the power entrusted to them solely for the benefit of the people and according to their will. "The power of the vote is stronger than you think," Lee added. "Whether those elected become loyal servants who enrich our lives or malicious rulers who inflict suffering depends on the hands of the sovereign." He concluded by suggesting that any politician or political group uncomfortable with this message is likely part of the "old guard" or vested interests that citizens should overcome through their votes.

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I urge you to actively participate in the vote to show that the people are the owners of this country, where power should be directed, and where the will of the sovereign lies.