President Lee Vows to Create 'Peaceful Korean Peninsula' in Korean War Commemoration

President Lee Jae-myung declared his commitment to building a "truly peaceful Korean Peninsula" free from the threat of war, emphasizing the need for robust national defense. Speaking at the ceremony marking the 76th anniversary of the Korean War on June 25, Lee stated, "We will surely create a truly peaceful Korean Peninsula where there is no worry of war and no need to fight, by protecting our people and territory with strong national defense."

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We will surely create a truly peaceful Korean Peninsula where there is no worry of war and no need to fight, by protecting our people and territory with strong national defense.

Lee, attending the event at the Suwon Convention Center in Gyeonggi Province, asserted that the current government of popular sovereignty would steadfastly protect the "great Republic of Korea" built by the war heroes. He highlighted that the peace and prosperity enjoyed today were not freely given but were achieved through the noble sacrifices and dedication of heroes who risked everything when the nation's fate hung in the balance.

The president recalled the immense suffering caused by the war that began 76 years ago, noting that countless citizens lost loved ones and were forced to flee their homes. He praised the strong will and determination of those who defended the nation, including regular soldiers and student soldiers who took up arms instead of pens, and ordinary citizens who bravely entered the battlefield to protect their country and families.

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The current government of popular sovereignty will steadfastly protect the "great Republic of Korea" built by the war heroes.

Lee underscored the importance of compensating and honoring Korean War veterans, stating, "Remembering and honoring these heroes is the most important duty of the state and our community, and the rightful obligation of us descendants who are enjoying today's freedom, prosperity, and peace." He pledged that the government would do its utmost to ensure that the veterans' sacrifices translate into more honorable and stable lives, upholding the principle that special sacrifices and dedication for the nation deserve commensurate compensation and respect.

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Remembering and honoring these heroes is the most important duty of the state and our community, and the rightful obligation of us descendants who are enjoying today's freedom, prosperity, and peace.

Notably, President Lee's speech did not mention North Korea or the United States, a departure from previous years' commemorations. In 2020, then-President Moon Jae-in had referred to the "invasion by North Korean forces" and the "sacrifices of UN war veterans, including the United States."

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Special sacrifices and dedication for the nation deserve commensurate compensation and respect.