Lee calls on North Korea to join South in talks toward ending the Korean War

President Lee Jae Myung addressed the nation on the 81st anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japanese rule, calling on North Korea to join South Korea in talks aimed at ending the Korean War. The president proposed discussing practical methods for halting North Korea's nuclear weapons development. Lee stressed the importance of reducing hostility and establishing systems to manage tensions and conflicts, while also seeking multiple layers of safeguards to prevent crises and the escalation of hostilities.

He envisioned a stable Korean Peninsula that could become a milestone on the path to a world without nuclear weapons. Lee also vowed to reclaim wealth unjustly amassed by national traitors and Japanese collaborators, promising to hold those responsible accountable and use the confiscated assets for the benefit of independence activists and their families.

The president emphasized that a Korea mired in hostility and conflict is not one that can realize the great potential and dynamic nature of its people. He highlighted his intention to channel the energy of conflict into motivation for peaceful coexistence and mutual prosperity, and pledged to pursue pragmatic diplomacy that aligns with Korea's interests in addressing Korea-Japan relations.