President Lee Pledges Support for Dignified Life at Vatican Event

President Lee Jae-myung stated on June 14 that he would contribute to creating a world where everyone can enjoy a dignified life.

Speaking at a special mass for peace and solidarity held at St. Paul's Cathedral in Rome, President Lee emphasized his commitment to fulfilling international responsibilities to ensure that peace becomes a shared heritage of humanity.

Quoting Isaiah 2:4, which speaks of turning swords into plowshares and spears into pruning hooks, he expressed hope that peace on the Korean Peninsula would lead to global peace, creating a virtuous cycle where international solidarity strengthens peace in Korea.

He noted, "The world today is facing deeper conflicts and uncertainties than ever before. The sounds of war in Ukraine continue, and new conflicts are emerging in the Middle East."

President Lee remarked that the foundations of cooperation and coexistence are being shaken, casting shadows of division and confrontation across the international community, and that the Korean Peninsula is not free from this reality.

He highlighted the resilience of the South Korean people, who have maintained their belief in peace and democracy despite numerous trials and hardships. He stated, "We reclaimed our lost nation, rebuilt it from the ruins of war, and advanced democracy beyond the era of dictatorship and oppression."

He also pointed out that even amid economic crises and social turbulence, South Koreans have illuminated the darkness with candles instead of guns, peace instead of violence, and solidarity instead of cynicism. He praised the Korean Catholic Church, which began as a voluntary community of faith and has been a steadfast support in upholding the values of human dignity, peace, and solidarity during difficult times.

Reflecting on the historic June 15 Inter-Korean Declaration, he noted that 26 years ago, the North and South met for the first time since their division and announced the declaration, marking a turning point that signaled the possibility of dialogue and cooperation beyond long-standing hostility and tension.

He affirmed, "I firmly believe that the spark of hope from that declaration is still alive today," referencing the subsequent family reunions, humanitarian cooperation, and exchanges that opened new doors for peace on the Korean Peninsula.

President Lee stated that since taking office last year, the South Korean government has pursued proactive measures to ease tensions, including halting leaflet distribution and loudspeaker broadcasts towards the North, clearly stating that it does not seek absorption or unilateral competition.

He committed to continuing efforts to prevent accidental clashes between the North and South and to restore military trust, stating, "We will do everything we can to build a sustainable peace regime beyond the current armistice."

He also mentioned the upcoming World Youth Conference to be held in Seoul next year, expressing hope that young people from around the world could gather beyond frontlines, barbed wires, and borders. He requested the Vatican's interest and constructive role in this endeavor, promising that the South Korean government would do its utmost to support it.

President Lee concluded by recalling the words of Jesus Christ, who told his fearful disciples, "Take courage; I have overcome the world," wishing that this message would bring comfort, courage, and hope to today's youth.