President Lee Jae-myung said on the 5th, Children's Day, that he would do his best "to build a society where all 365 days of the year can feel like Children's Day."
Lee said this in a Facebook post titled "Marking the 104th Children's Day" that day.
Lee said, "Looking back, children were never lacking or immature; they only needed a little more time than adults," adding, "Each person learns and grows at their own pace, and is a whole individual who understands the world in their own way."
Lee continued, "Much will differ depending on how we look at children and how we treat them," noting, "If we watch over them with warmth and wait long enough, children will one day grow into adults with broader hearts and deeper consideration."
Lee also said, "I, too, will not regard children merely as objects of protection or cute beings, but will respect them as individuals with dignity and character," adding, "I will continue striving to be a dignified adult who safeguards children's dignity."
Lee, together with first lady Kim Hea-kyung, also held an event inviting about 200 children and families to the Blue House. Children with disabilities, children from child protection facilities, children from regions facing population extinction, and children from multicultural families attended.
The children's invitation event took place in Sejong Hall of the main building, where Cabinet meetings are held, and in Chungmu Hall, where appointment ceremonies and other events are held. They then moved to Nokjiwon, arranged as a "one-day playground," for activities such as hand-back painting and keycap making. There was also time to receive Lee's autograph.
Lee said, "As president, I will fulfill my duty so that our children can grow up in a safer environment," adding, "I will do my utmost to build a country where children can nurture their dreams in any environment and take on challenges based on fair opportunities."