President Lee Jae-myung Commemorates Memorial Day with Promises of Support for Veterans

On June 6, President Lee Jae-myung attended the 70th Memorial Day ceremony held at the National Cemetery in Seoul's Dongjak District. This marked his first participation in a national commemorative event since taking office. During his speech, President Lee emphasized the need to eradicate the notion that 'three generations suffer for independence movements while three generations prosper from collaboration with Japan.' He pledged to ensure that sacrifices made for the nation receive appropriate compensation.

President Lee stated, 'Honoring our veterans is a fundamental duty of the state, reflecting the minimum respect owed to their sacrifices and dedication.' He asserted that special sacrifices should be met with special rewards, promising to enhance support for veterans and their families, ensuring they feel pride and dignity.

He also committed to addressing the needs of surviving spouses of veterans, aiming to eliminate gaps in support and improve their living conditions. Furthermore, he announced plans to establish a comprehensive healthcare system for veterans, ensuring they can access timely medical benefits conveniently near their homes. He vowed to realize fair compensation for military service, honoring the dedication of veterans and discharged soldiers.

In his remarks, President Lee acknowledged the contributions of military personnel, firefighters, and police officers, promising to improve their working conditions so they can serve the nation and its citizens without worry. He concluded by stating that creating a peaceful country free from the fear of war and ensuring safety in daily life is the most responsible response to the sacred sacrifices made by many. He called for a nation where democracy and prosperity flourish on a foundation of strong peace, filled with pride and dignity.

The ceremony was attended by approximately 4,000 people, including veterans, their families, key government officials, representatives from various sectors, and citizens. Notably, families of the late Colonel Park Jin-woo, Major Lee Tae-hoon, Sergeant Yoon Dong-kyu, and Sergeant Kang Shin-won, who lost their lives in a naval patrol aircraft accident last month, were invited, along with the family of the late Fire Chief Lim Sung-cheol, who died in a fire incident in Seogwipo last December.