Lee Jae-myung, the president, stated that on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day, he will further expand practical support, including education, culture, and network formation, so that 7 million overseas compatriots can grow as talents while maintaining their pride and identity as Koreans.

President Lee Jae-myung is delivering a congratulatory address at the 80th anniversary celebration of Liberation Day held at the Sejong Center in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on the 15th. /Courtesy of the Presidential Office

On the 15th, President Lee noted in a 'special message to overseas compatriots' that '80 years ago, we regained what we had lost' and added, 'It would have been impossible without the dedication and sacrifices of countless independence activists who burned themselves with unyielding will toward a sovereign state and the restoration of sovereignty, as well as our nation's commitment.'

President Lee said, 'Overseas compatriots, you have protected our homeland whenever it has faced crises even after Liberation. You have worked together for the democratization of our homeland against the oppression of dictatorship, and during the process of overcoming the 12·3 coup, you came together with unwavering solidarity.' He added, 'The unyielding history of overseas compatriots will never be forgotten by the Republic of Korea.'

He then mentioned the achievements of the Republic of Korea over the past 80 years, stating, 'We have achieved both industrialization and democratization, and have risen as a cultural powerhouse admired by the world.'

He concluded by saying, 'I will make sure that such brilliant activities can continue into the next generation and will do my best to create a proud homeland that we can always trust and rely on, the Republic of Korea.'

President Lee also delivered a special message to compatriots residing in Japan, saying, 'We cannot forget the stories of many Koreans in Japan who devoted themselves passionately for the noble goal of our country's independence.'

He continued, 'The Republic of Korea will never forget the history of Koreans in Japan, who have always demonstrated shining patriotism even amidst blood, sweat, and tears.'

President Lee expressed gratitude by saying, 'I am always thankful to those Koreans in Japan who live with a sense of pride in their homeland and with the mindset of representing the Republic of Korea.'

※ This article has been translated by AI. Share your feedback here.