On May 8, President Lee Jae-myung delivered an emotional speech at the 54th Parents' Day ceremony, expressing the government's commitment to honoring the responsibilities of fallen public servants' families.
The ceremony took place at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jung-gu, Seoul, where President Lee presented carnations to the parents of deceased police officers and firefighters before addressing the audience.
Approximately 230 attendees included parents of public servants who died in the line of duty during rescue operations, as well as individuals recognized for their filial piety and elderly citizens living alone.
President Lee and his wife personally pinned red carnations on the chests of 11 parents of fallen public servants, conveying their condolences, gratitude, and respect.
"As I handed out the carnations, I suddenly found myself in tears," President Lee said. "I can only imagine the pain you feel. I offer my heartfelt condolences," he added before beginning his speech.
During his address, President Lee became emotional while recalling the moment he honored the parents of fallen public servants.
"On Parents' Day, there are those who are grieving for family members they can no longer meet," he said, struggling to continue.
He continued, his voice choked with emotion, "Today, we are joined by the parents of public servants who left us while protecting the lives of our citizens."
President Lee acknowledged the profound sorrow of parents who have lost their beloved children, stating, "I know that no words can fully comfort you in the face of such grief. I will solemnly remember the noble sacrifices of those young individuals who fulfilled their duties until the very end in the most dangerous situations."
The ceremony took place at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jung-gu, Seoul, where President Lee presented carnations to the parents of deceased police officers and firefighters before addressing the audience.
Approximately 230 attendees included parents of public servants who died in the line of duty during rescue operations, as well as individuals recognized for their filial piety and elderly citizens living alone.
President Lee and his wife personally pinned red carnations on the chests of 11 parents of fallen public servants, conveying their condolences, gratitude, and respect.
"As I handed out the carnations, I suddenly found myself in tears," President Lee said. "I can only imagine the pain you feel. I offer my heartfelt condolences," he added before beginning his speech.
During his address, President Lee became emotional while recalling the moment he honored the parents of fallen public servants.
"On Parents' Day, there are those who are grieving for family members they can no longer meet," he said, struggling to continue.
He continued, his voice choked with emotion, "Today, we are joined by the parents of public servants who left us while protecting the lives of our citizens."
President Lee acknowledged the profound sorrow of parents who have lost their beloved children, stating, "I know that no words can fully comfort you in the face of such grief. I will solemnly remember the noble sacrifices of those young individuals who fulfilled their duties until the very end in the most dangerous situations."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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