Park Jin, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated on October 23 that "the Republic of Korea will take the lead in restoring the values of solidarity and ensuring the UN functions effectively."
Minister Park made these remarks during the 81st UN Day ceremony, co-hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Korean Association for the United Nations. In his speech, he reflected on the over 80-year history of Korea's partnership with the UN, noting that the commitment of 22 UN member states during the Korean War and the UN's support afterward played a crucial role in Korea's industrialization and democratization. He emphasized that Korea, marking its 35th anniversary of UN membership, has grown into a nation contributing to the UN's three pillars: peace and security, development, and human rights.
Additionally, Minister Park referenced President Lee Jae-myung's keynote address at the 81st UN General Assembly, which highlighted Korea's role in restoring the spirit of the UN and connecting the world. He expressed Korea's commitment to leading efforts to restore the values of solidarity and ensure the UN operates effectively amid serious international challenges such as prolonged conflicts and the climate crisis.
The ceremony commemorated the official establishment of the UN following the enactment of the UN Charter on October 24, 1945, and was attended by approximately 350 people, including government officials, media representatives, the diplomatic corps in Korea, members of international organizations, and veterans' associations. The event took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building.
The ceremony included opening remarks by Lee Jung-geun, president of the Korean Association for the United Nations, and a speech by Minister Park. Video messages were delivered by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, along with remarks from Faith Yıldız, the Turkish Ambassador to Korea, representing UN member states, and a speech by youth representative Koo Na-yoon from the UN Student Association.
In his opening remarks, President Lee reminded attendees that today's Korea exists due to the UN's approval and the sacrifices of UN forces during the establishment of the government and the Korean War. He emphasized the responsibility to repay the contributions and sacrifices of the UN, as Korea has transitioned from a recipient of aid to a contributor to the international community.
This year's UN Day ceremony, co-hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Korean Association for the United Nations, is seen as an opportunity for the government and civil society to share the values of the UN. The Ministry stated that it will continue to strengthen cooperation with the UN and actively engage with civil society and the youth to fulfill its responsible role in the international community.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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