On September 23rd, President Lee Jae-myung delivered a keynote speech at the 80th United Nations General Assembly held in New York, USA, where he pledged to fulfill his role in ending the Cold War on the Korean Peninsula and contributing to global peace and prosperity through the “E.N.D Initiative.” This initiative, being discussed explicitly for the first time, encompasses Exchange, Normalization, and Denuclearization to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula.
During his 20-minute speech, President Lee outlined three principles for inter-Korean policy: respecting the other’s regime, not pursuing any form of absorption unification, and having no intention of hostile acts. He addressed the reduction of unnecessary military tensions between the two Koreas, noting his government’s proactive measures, such as halting the dissemination of anti-North leaflets and broadcasts after taking office. He reiterated the importance of creating a state of peace where conflicts are unnecessary and emphasized that peace on the Korean Peninsula should involve both Koreas and the international community.
President Lee highlighted the need for pragmatic and rational solutions to the denuclearization of North Korea, acknowledging it as a challenging but essential task. He advocated for a phased approach beginning with a cessation of nuclear and missile capability enhancement, moving towards reduction, and ultimately achieving full dismantlement.
Additionally, at the UN, President Lee asserted that recent domestic events, including a pro-democracy revolution against a loyalist coup, demonstrated the unyielding will for democracy and peace among South Koreans. This example showcased the UN’s spirit through South Korea’s history over 80 years.
President Lee also addressed the advancing AI era, underscoring the need for its responsible use amid growing security threats, including cyberattacks. He cautioned against passively adapting to AI developments, urging proactive engagement to harness AI for strengthening innovation, prosperity, and direct democracy, while avoiding pitfalls like human rights infringements and worsening inequality.
He took the opportunity to promote the upcoming APEC summit in Gyeongju at the end of October, where he plans to share the “APEC AI Initiative” and advocate for a vision of AI that contributes to universal values. Additionally, he underscored the role of AI in tackling global challenges like the climate crisis, aiming for technological advancements to become the new standard in addressing these issues at the international level.