Seoul: President Lee Jae-myung stated that rewarding patriotism is a national responsibility and duty during a Memorial Day ceremony at Seoul National Cemetery. This event marked his first attendance at a national commemorative event since taking office on Wednesday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee pledged to provide "special compensation" for those who sacrificed their lives to safeguard the nation. He emphasized that rewarding patriotism is the minimum treatment for such sacrifice and dedication. Lee promised improvements in the rewards system for those who sacrificed themselves for the country and pledged better working conditions for military personnel, firefighters, and police officers.
Lee committed to enhancing support for the surviving spouses of war veterans and improving medical services for veterans. He also assured fair compensation for military service, ensuring appropriate recognition for national merit recipients and discharged veterans. Lee highlighted the need to reshape national values by moving beyond the past, emphasizing the importance of rewarding sacrifice and devotion for the community.
In his speech, Lee did not address North Korea or diplomatic issues but focused on building a peaceful nation. He stressed the importance of creating a safe society free from the threat of war as a way to honor the sacrifices made by service members. Lee called for a nation where democracy and prosperity thrive on the foundation of peace, filled with pride and dignity.
The ceremony was attended by approximately 4,000 people, including the bereaved families of four service members who died in a Navy patrol aircraft crash last month. Lee personally offered condolences to each of the bereaved family members and the widow of a Navy pilot who perished in the crash. He mentioned the names of the fallen service members and a firefighter who died during operations, expressing deep condolences and stating that their devotion will be remembered.
Senior officials and politicians, including National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik, Supreme Court Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae, Park Chan-dae, acting leader of the ruling Democratic Party, and Kim Yong-tae, interim leader of the main opposition People Power Party, were also present at the ceremony.