Lee said the country had "overcome various difficulties, achieved rapid industrialization and democratization" since its liberation in 1945, calling for an end to "politics of division based on outdated ideologies" in favor of dialogue and cooperation.
Lee also stressed the importance of honoring those who gave their lives for independence, noting that many lost their lives overseas during the liberation movement and have yet to be brought home. "We will step up efforts to bring back the remains of activists who fought for independence abroad and passed away there, and make sure those who have not yet been recognized by the state are honored," he said.
On North Korea, Lee said, "The South and the North are not enemies. We should respect each other’s differences and aim for peaceful unification." He cited his administration’s suspension of loudspeaker broadcasts and leaflet campaigns as steps to ease tensions since he took office in early June. And Lee called this year, the 80th anniversary of liberation, "a suitable time" to end confrontation and expressed hope for Pyongyang to respond.
Regarding the nuclear issue, Lee reaffirmed that denuclearization is the ultimate goal but acknowledged that it is "a complicated and difficult task" that will require talks between the two Koreas, U.S.-North Korea engagement, and cooperation with the international community.
On Japan, Lee urged Tokyo to acknowledge and address historical issues while seeking future-oriented cooperation with a summit with the Japanese prime minister scheduled later this month.
Lee will also attend another large public event at Gwanghwamun Square in the evening, where 80 representatives symbolizing the 80th anniversary will present him with symbolic letters of appointment. Participants will include foreign diplomats in Korea, descendants of independence activists, military officials, and 3,500 citizens. Families of former presidents and religious leaders are also expected to attend, though most opposition leaders will be absent. The event comes two months after his inauguration in June.
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