Lee said the country had "overcome various difficulties, achieving rapid industrialization and democratization" since its liberation in 1945, saying it is now a time for more "dialogue and cooperation" and that the country should move beyond various conflicts.
Lee also stressed the importance of honoring those who gave their lives during the liberation movement, noting that many of them had taken part in the movement abroad and have yet to be brought home. Lee said the government "will step up efforts to return the remains of activists who fought abroad and ensure those not yet 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," citing the suspension of loudspeaker broadcasts along the border and the sending of leaflets critical of the North as steps to ease tensions since he took office in early June. "This year is a suitable time to pursue peace and end hostility," Lee said, noting it marks the 80th anniversary of liberation and expressing hope for Pyongyang to respond.
Regarding the Korean Peninsula's 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," signaling issues likely to be discussed ahead of a summit with the Japanese prime minister later this month.
Lee will also attend a large public event at Gwanghwamun Square in the evening. Eighty representatives, which symbolize the 80 years since Korea’s liberation, will present him with ceremonial letters of appointment. The event comes two months after he took office in early June.
The event’s participants are expected to include former President Moon Jae-in, some relatives of former presidents, leaders and officials in various fields, foreign envoys, and about 3,500 citizens. Meanwhile, most opposition leaders are expected to be absent.
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