Among the attendees were the surviving families of those who lost their lives in a 2002 naval skirmish in the West Sea, as well as victims of North Korea's sinking of the Navy corvette Cheonan in March 2010 and its shelling of Yeonpyeong Island several months later.
During the luncheon which was held in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the outbreak of the 1950–53 Korean War, Lee expressed his gratitude for their dedication and sacrifices in defense of the country, which have enabled ordinary people to "live in peace and freedom today."
He also offered sympathy for their suffering and honored each by calling them by name, pledging "the highest level of recognition."
He added, "Those who sacrifice their lives for the country deserve proper compensation and respect," emphasizing, "We will do our utmost to ensure that none of you feel neglected or unrecognized."
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