[속보] 이 대통령 “친일 반민족 행위자 부당축적 재산 환수…확실한 책임 묻겠다”

On the 15th, marking the 81st anniversary of independence from Japanese rule, President Park Jae-myung addressed the nation, expressing his intention to engage in discussions aimed at ending the long-standing conflict and halting North Korea's nuclear advancements. Speaking at the 81st anniversary of independence commemoration ceremony in Seoul's Sejong Culture Center, President Park stated, "By discussing ways to cease North Korea's nuclear program, we may be able to effectively end the situation."

President Park reiterated his stance from the previous year, declaring that South Korea would not seek the absorption of North Korea, nor engage in any hostile actions. He outlined his vision for a "mutual respect" approach, emphasizing the need for both nations to reduce hostility by addressing perceptions, norms, and systems. President Park called for a joint sitting to discuss peace and shared growth, hoping for a future where North and South sit together to work towards a peaceful coexistence.

He further discussed the need for systematic control of tensions and conflict, as well as the establishment of multiple safety measures to prevent crises. He pledged to review the security situation around the Korean peninsula comprehensively, leading to proactive and enduring peace actions. President Park expressed hope that such actions would lead to a stable Korean peninsula, free from nuclear capabilities.

He concluded by stating that a conflict-ridden Korea does not reflect the potential and dynamism of its people. He urged a shift in energy from confrontation to peace and prosperity, transforming the energy of confrontation into a driving force for peace and shared prosperity. President Park emphasized his commitment to addressing the assets of those involved in pro-Japanese and anti-ethnic activities, vowing to investigate and recover their funds for history's accountability, and managing federally owned pro-Japanese assets responsibly, ensuring they benefit the descendants of independence activists and entrepreneurs.

He also highlighted the importance of practical national interest foreign policy, emphasizing increased cooperation in supply chains, energy, advanced industries, and youth exchanges. Finally, he reiterated his desire to eliminate barriers, avoid conflict resulting from differences, and prevent national progress from being hindered by hatred, ostracism, and division.