On December 3, at the Presidential Office in Yongsan, Seoul, President Lee Jae-myung delivered a special public statement on the occasion of the first anniversary of the “Revolution of Light.” Following the announcement, he addressed questions from the press, emphasizing that unification should not merely serve as a temporary fix. He stated, “Integration does not mean patching things up. If we just cover things up and assume they’re resolved, they will resurface. I ask everyone to be a little more resilient, supportive, and patient.”
President Lee clarified that his intention wasn’t to harshly punish the involved parties indefinitely but rather to forgive, reconcile, and embrace those who genuinely reflect and demonstrate no risk of recurrence. He commented on the process of reform, indicating, “Reform involves significant challenge and change, often met with resistance from those currently benefiting unfairly from the status quo.” He likened reform to a necessary surgical procedure, even if painful, to address the deeper issues likened to removing a deadly cancer.
When questioned about the end of martial law, he asserted, “We need to see it through to the end.” Distinguishing between punitive measures for rebellion and addressing past issues, he remarked the latter could feel like unnecessarily revisiting old wounds, whereas the current situation is an ongoing concern.
Additionally, he declared December 3rd as “National Sovereignty Day,” emphasizing its historical significance as a day when the nation successfully defended democracy through peaceful means. He acknowledged that instituting such a public holiday would require legislative action but expressed confidence that it would honor the citizens’ courage and actions.
President Lee also expressed the hope for international recognition, suggesting that the citizens’ peaceful overcoming of an unprecedented democratic crisis could merit a Nobel Peace Prize, not just as a national achievement but as a global model of peaceful resistance.
Reflecting on the budget, President Lee thanked the National Assembly for its bipartisan collaboration in passing the next year’s budget within the legal timeframe, viewing it as an example of effective governance amid political strife.