President Lee Jae-myung Attends Memorial Ceremony on Memorial Day

President Lee Jae-myung attended the 71st Memorial Day ceremony in Seoul on June 6, honoring the sacrifices and dedication of those who have given their lives for the nation and comforting veterans and their families.

This year marks the 71st Memorial Day ceremony, themed "We Will Remember, Record, and Fulfill Our Responsibilities." The theme emphasizes the importance of remembering the sacrifices made for the nation and community, and continuing the noble spirit of those who have served to achieve peace and prosperity together.

The event was attended by over 3,000 participants, including First Lady Kim Hye-kyung, veterans, their families, government officials, and uniformed personnel.

Notably, the families of the late Sergeant Lee Jae-seok, who died while rescuing a stranded man in Incheon last September, and the late Corporal Jeong Sang-geun and Corporal Jang Hee-seong, who lost their lives in a helicopter crash in February, were also invited.

The ceremony began at 10 a.m. with a nationwide siren to commemorate the occasion, followed by a moment of silence, national tribute, flower offerings, incense burning, a themed video presentation, letter readings, the awarding of certificates to veterans, commemorative speeches, performances, and the singing of the Memorial Song.

During the national tribute, Choi Il-sang, a disabled veteran and former Paralympic table tennis player, read the pledge of allegiance to the flag.

The themed video reflected on how today's South Korea is built upon the sacrifices of those who fought for independence, defense, and democracy. A letter from the mother of the late Sergeant Lee Jae-seok, Baek Yeon-jae, will also be read.

The commemorative performance will feature Han Hee-na, a Korean War veteran, sharing her recorded memories of the war, with her granddaughter Han Da-hee reading excerpts on stage.

Following this, musical actor Choi Jeong-won, a citizen choir, and military vocalists will perform "My Friend," after which all attendees will stand to sing the Memorial Song.

In his commemorative speech, President Lee will emphasize how the Korean people have united to overcome crises throughout history and pledge to create a proud South Korea that the fallen heroes envisioned.