President Lee launches 'Committee of Light,' vows to protect popular sovereignty

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung launched the 'Committee of Light' on July 17, emphasizing the unwavering importance of democracy and popular sovereignty. The committee, established in March as a presidential advisory body, is dedicated to commemorating and preserving the legacy of citizens who resisted what the current administration terms "illegal emergency martial law" during a previous government.

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Never again should democracy and popular sovereignty be threatened. No one should try to reign above the constitution.

Speaking at an event attended by over 100 citizens at the Blue House, President Lee stated, "Never again should democracy and popular sovereignty be threatened. No one should try to reign above the constitution." He pledged that his administration would uphold the fundamental principle that the people are the masters of the nation. The committee's initiatives include designating December 3 as 'Popular Sovereignty Day' and establishing a digital archive for the "Revolution of Light."

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The popular sovereignty government will definitely protect the most simple yet fundamental principle that the people are the masters of the nation.

President Lee also highlighted the significance of Constitution Day, noting its exclusion as a public holiday until this year. He expressed his long-held view that this omission reflected a lack of emphasis on the constitution's importance. The re-designation of Constitution Day as a national holiday this year, he stated, signifies a move towards a society that truly respects the constitution as the supreme law of the Republic of Korea.

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Through the Committee of Light, we will remember and record the great history of the Revolution of Light for a long time.

During the event, President Lee presented commendations to four citizens for their contributions to the "Revolution of Light." The citations recognized their courage in standing against armed force, choosing solidarity over hatred, peace over violence, and action over silence, thereby proving that South Korean democracy, though tested, would not collapse. Following the ceremony, attendees watched the documentary film 'Ran 12.3' and heard firsthand accounts from citizens who were present during the events.

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The brave courage, the power of solidarity, and the high civic consciousness you have shown will be remembered for a long time in our democratic history.