Speaking at a ceremony held in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province and attended by war veterans, military officers and government officials, Lee said, "We will protect the people and the territory through strong defense capabilities and build a peaceful Korean Peninsula free from the fear of war and the need for conflict," he said.
He credited the country's peace and prosperity to the "sacrifices of those who fought in the war," and honored the war dead and veterans, saying their "noble sacrifice and dedication" had protected the nation at its greatest risk.
Lee also granted posthumous recognition to several individuals whose contributions had long been overlooked, and pledged to expand benefits for those who sacrificed for the country including the families of service personnel.
Highlighting the role of UN forces during the war, Lee said the sacrifice of those who fought in a distant Asian country laid the foundation for South Korea's freedom and peace today, adding that South Korea, once a recipient of international aid, now has a responsibility to give back and contribute to global peace and prosperity.
Concluding his speech, he vowed to strengthen national defense and preserve the legacy of those who served, ensuring that their sacrifice would never be forgotten.
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