President Lee honors citizens who resisted alleged martial law

President Lee Jae-myung honored citizens who he said resisted an alleged illegal martial law during a previous administration. The president presented commendations to four individuals at an event celebrating the launch of the 'Committee of Light,' a presidential advisory body established in March.

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You have proven to the world that the democracy of the Republic of Korea, though shaken, will never collapse. As President of the Republic of Korea, and as a citizen of the Republic of Korea, I express my deep respect and gratitude.

The committee is tasked with promoting projects to commemorate and carry forward the spirit of citizens who opposed what the administration termed the '12.3 martial law revolution.'

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I hope the Committee of Light becomes a vessel that holds the wisdom of the past generations' dark experiences and memories, along with the innovative ideas, passion, and courage of the MZ generation.

Among those honored was Yoon Hyun-ju, who was the first to wrap herself in a silver blanket in front of the National Assembly on the day of the alleged martial law, initiating the 'Kisses Corps.' Also recognized were Hong Won-ki, who confronted martial law troops bare-handed to protect the National Assembly, Shim Gyu-hyeop, who managed various rallies and served as a fundraising channel, and Seo Min-young, who attended over 60 related rallies.

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The most important task for military reform is to ensure our military is never again used as a tool for rebellion.

The commendations stated, 'You have proven to the world that the democracy of the Republic of Korea, though shaken, will never collapse.' The event also featured speeches from citizens who played a role in preventing the alleged rebellion. Oh Jong-gil, who blocked a military bus with his bare hands despite his mother's warnings, expressed hope that the Committee of Light would become a vessel for the wisdom of past generations and the ideas of the MZ generation. Retired Army Brigadier General Choi Hwa-sik, who watched President Lee's live YouTube broadcast and confronted troops, emphasized the importance of constitutional defense and military neutrality. Seok Min-ju, co-author of a book about the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, wished for the Lee Jae-myung administration to embrace and realize citizens' voices.

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I sincerely hope that the Lee Jae-myung government, which started with the aspirations of the plaza, becomes a government that embraces and realizes the voices of citizens more broadly and firmly.