South Korean President Lee Jae Myung stressed the importance of honoring and paying respects to those who died while serving the country during a Memorial Day ceremony. The event, held at Seoul National Cemetery, was attended by 3,000 individuals, including uniformed service members, government officials, and national merit recipients. Among the attendees were families of fallen heroes, including a Coast Guard officer who died during a rescue mission and two service members killed in a helicopter crash.
President Lee highlighted the upcoming enactment of a law to provide enhanced benefits to families of independence fighters and financial support to war veterans’ spouses. He also pledged to expand veterans hospitals to remote areas like Gangwon Province and Jeju Island. Stressing the importance of honoring dedication, the president stated that rewarding noble sacrifices is crucial for national progress.
In addition to honoring sacrifices, President Lee emphasized the need to hold accountable those who betray the community. He announced measures to investigate and seize illegally acquired assets from pro-Japan collaborators of the colonial era. The president also promised increased government support for uniformed service members, including soldiers, firefighters, police officers, and Coast Guard personnel, while vowing to enhance assistance for those injured during military service.
Addressing current challenges, President Lee expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to overcome crises, citing the economic impact of conflicts in the Middle East. He underscored the unity and resilience of the Korean people in times of national adversity, emphasizing the country’s potential to unite in the face of challenges.
