**Speech Commemorating the 107th Anniversary of the March 1st Movement: Mention of ‘Korea-Japan Historical Issues’**
**Thorough Investigation into North’s UAV Incident**
President Lee Jae-myung and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung salute the national flag at the ceremony marking the 107th anniversary of the March 1st Movement held at COEX in Gangnam, Seoul. / News1
On the 1st of March, during a commemorative speech for the March 1st Movement, President Lee Jae-myung mentioned Korea-Japan historical issues and stated, “I hope the Japanese government will also respond positively to open a ‘new harmonious world’ based on sincere understanding and empathy between the two countries.”
At the 107th-anniversary ceremony held at COEX in Gangnam, Seoul, the President remarked, “Korea and Japan have shared a turbulent history,” reinforcing this sentiment.
He stated, “Our relationship with Japan should also develop based on the spirit of March 1st, which pursued peace and shared prosperity.” He acknowledged that “remnants of our painful history still linger in our society, and there are victims and bereaved families who suffer.”
He further addressed that “now, faced with a harsh international situation, is the time for Korea and Japan to respond to current realities and open the future together.” He asserted, “Our government will strive to look squarely at the past, address present challenges together, and move towards a future through pragmatic diplomacy.”
Additionally, the President delivered a conciliatory message towards North Korea: “Our government respects the regime of the North and will not pursue any acts of hostility or any form of forced reunification.” He continued, “As the North establishes and implements its new five-year plan, I hope they will promptly come to the dialogue table to leave behind a dark past and advance towards a new future together.”
He stated, “The UAV infiltration incident last year, which occurred entirely independent of this government, is a significant issue threatening peace on the Korean Peninsula. Actions that provoke tension and conflict on this peninsula, where both Koreas live together, cannot be justified by any excuse.” He emphasized, “We will thoroughly investigate the matter, hold those responsible accountable, and create institutional measures to prevent such incidents from happening again.”
President Lee said, “Honoring and paying respect to our predecessors’ sacrifices is a special reward for their extraordinary sacrifices and a minimal measure for maintaining our community.” He continued, “As announced on Liberation Day, we will expand the discovery and awards for unrecognized independence activists and provide more support to the families of independence activists.”
He further announced, “We will designate the area around Hyochang Park as the ‘National Hyochang Independence Park’ and prepare extensive utilization plans for the Shanghai Provisional Government building to honor the spirit of independence for generations.”