President Lee Pledges Enduring Vigilance for South Korea’s Democratic Light on 80th Liberation Day

SEOUL – South Korean President Lee Jae Myung today delivered a powerful and poignant congratulatory speech at the solemn ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation from Japan’s 35-year colonial rule. The historic event, a focal point of national pride and reflection, unfolded at the venerable Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, nestled in the vibrant heart of central Seoul.

In an address that resonated deeply with the nation’s past and future aspirations, President Lee underscored an unwavering commitment to the principles of freedom and self-determination. His central message revolved around the imperative to safeguard what he eloquently termed “the light regained through liberation, and that defended against dictatorship and insurrection.” This assertion forms the core news of his remarks, setting a clear tone for the nation’s path forward.

A Legacy of Democratic Resilience

The President’s speech served as a profound reminder of South Korea’s arduous journey to secure and sustain its democratic ideals. He highlighted that the nation’s progress and stability were not merely handed down but were rigorously fought for and meticulously preserved through generations of perseverance. President Lee provided compelling evidence of South Korea’s robust and thriving democratic republic by citing two pivotal peaceful revolutions that reshaped the political landscape without resorting to violence.

He specifically recalled the monumental 2016 presidential impeachment, a testament to the strength of public will and constitutional mechanisms. Furthermore, he referenced another significant event from last year, implicitly acknowledging a more recent demonstration of the Korean people’s collective power to uphold democratic norms and ensure accountability. These instances, he argued, stand as beaconing examples of a citizenry deeply committed to democratic processes, proving the nation’s capacity for peaceful, fundamental change.

President Lee’s emphasis on these historical moments underlined the extraordinary resilience embedded within South Korea’s democratic framework. He stressed that these achievements are not just footnotes in history but living proof of a system where the populace can effectively assert its sovereignty and correct its course, reinforcing the very foundation of the republic.

Honoring the Architects of Freedom

A significant portion of President Lee’s address was dedicated to the profound importance of honoring the individuals whose sacrifices forged the nation’s freedom. He stressed the paramount need to commemorate and respect independence activists and national merit veterans—the brave men and women who either fought against colonial oppression or served to protect the newly established republic.

“Their courage, their unwavering spirit, and their ultimate sacrifices were instrumental in regaining this precious light of liberation,” President Lee stated. He added that the continuous remembrance of their contributions is not merely an act of gratitude but a vital component in educating future generations about the true cost of liberty and the vigilance required to maintain it. This recognition, he conveyed, reinforces the collective identity of South Korea as a nation built on principle and sacrifice, ensuring that the lessons of the past continue to guide the present and future.

A Pledge for the Future

As the nation reflected on eight decades since the joyous yet challenging dawn of liberation, President Lee’s speech provided a powerful headline for the day’s solemn observances. His pledge to protect the democratic gains, hard-won and diligently defended, serves as a clear directive. The ceremony not only looked back at the struggles endured during the 35-year colonial rule but also celebrated the vibrant democratic present that has emerged from that historical crucible.

President Lee concluded his remarks by reaffirming the collective responsibility to nurture and expand this “light,” ensuring that South Korea remains a beacon of freedom and democracy for generations to come. The message was clear: the spirit of liberation, perpetually vigilant, will continue to guide the nation.