Following the ceremony at the Suwon Convention Center, President Yoon addressed veterans at a luncheon, noting that foreign leaders have been requesting cooperation with South Korea in the semiconductor and defense industries. He stated, "The reason South Korea has gained global recognition today is thanks to your contributions."
Around 130 veterans, including Son Hee-won, president of the Korean War Veterans Association, attended the luncheon. President Yoon and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung engaged with the veterans, listening to their experiences and opinions on veteran support policies.
President Yoon remarked, "During my recent overseas visits, I felt that the international perception of South Korea is changing across all sectors, including advanced industries, culture, and politics. Foreign leaders frequently ask me about collaborating to establish semiconductor factories in their countries."
He also mentioned requests regarding defense, stating, "Many have asked if we could supply our air defense and missile systems first, indicating a significant increase in demand for South Korea."
President Yoon asserted, "South Korea has become a country recognized in all areas, whether in economy, politics, defense industry, or advanced science. We were on the brink of disappearing. Thanks to those who dedicated their youth and lives during the Korean War, South Korea has grown into a nation that attracts global attention today."
During the luncheon, veterans proposed various support measures, including legislation for bereaved families, increases in veteran honorarium, the establishment of a Korean War memorial, and enhanced support for spouses of veterans.
After the luncheon, President Yoon and First Lady Kim made an unannounced visit to the Paldalmun Market in Suwon. The President inquired about the local economy from merchants and purchased traditional market goods while gathering on-the-ground opinions.
According to a written briefing by Deputy Spokesperson Ahn Gwi-ryeong, the couple bought buckwheat chips, puffed rice, dried cuttlefish, twisted doughnuts, and other items. They also purchased daily necessities like shorts, scrubbing pads, hairpins, and underwear using gift certificates and cash.
At the market, they greeted residents, including a child with type 1 diabetes and a mother with hearing impairments who had just returned from a hospital visit. Before leaving the market, President Yoon bought additional beans and deodeok from elderly vendors.
The day before, President Yoon visited the Marine Corps' Yeonpyeong Unit in Incheon to encourage the troops. His schedule around the 76th anniversary of the Korean War included visiting the Yeonpyeong Unit, attending the commemoration ceremony, and hosting the luncheon for veterans.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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