President Lee Jae-myung delivered a commemorative speech marking the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day, calling for national harmony, inter-Korean peace, and a bold stride toward South Korea’s future.

In his August 15 address, President Lee stated, “Eighty years ago today, we reclaimed the light that was stolen from us.” He recognized that independence was won through countless sacrifices and unwavering commitment. He defined Liberation Day as “the moment we regained the freedom and rights to determine our own future and make choices about our lives,” and highlighted Korea’s achievements in simultaneously pursuing industrialization and democratization over the past 80 years.

President Lee vowed to further honor independence fighters, repatriate remains from abroad, and find unrecognized patriots, stating, “Any denial of our independence struggle or insult to independence activists is unacceptable.” Urging a shift from division and hate towards a more inclusive and unified political culture, he proposed, “Let us create a politics of solidarity and coexistence based on dialogue and compromise.”

Addressing inter-Korean relations, President Lee affirmed, “The South and the North are not enemies.” He expressed respect for existing inter-Korean agreements and made it clear that absorption unification would not be pursued. He outlined plans to restore the September 19 Military Agreement, reestablish a foundation for cooperation and exchange, and prepare conditions for mutual growth. “This year, the 80th anniversary, is the right time to usher in a new era of peaceful coexistence and joint prosperity,” Lee emphasized.

On foreign affairs, President Lee marked the 60th anniversary of Korea-Japan diplomatic relations and stressed, “We must face the past, but move toward the future.” He described Japan as a key partner in economic and diplomatic arenas and pledged to pursue shuttle diplomacy and future-oriented cooperation. He called on the Japanese government “to face painful historical truths and make efforts not to compromise mutual trust.”

Regarding economic and global challenges, President Lee addressed the restructuring of supply chains, competition in advanced technology, and the climate crisis. He urged the country to foster semiconductors and artificial intelligence, speed up the energy transition, and bolster cultural soft power, paving the way for Korea’s next hundred years. Concluding his address, he declared, “Just as we have until now, we will move forward without losing our way.”

Note: “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”