Lee stresses growth, inclusion in tribute to late President Kim Dae-jung

Seoul, Aug. 18 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung vowed Tuesday to pursue growth and inclusivity, continuing the legacy of the late former President Kim Dae-jung, as he commemorated the 17th anniversary of Kim's passing. "I will bring about concrete improvements in the lives of every citizen by establishing growth as the engine of progress and inclusion as the source of warmth," Lee stated in a message delivered by his chief of staff, Kang Hoon-sik, at a memorial service held at Seoul National Cemetery.

Lee affirmed that his administration would uphold Kim's spirit, propelling transformative changes through the AI revolution and energy transition. He acknowledged Kim's role in establishing a nationwide high-speed information and communications network, which laid the groundwork for South Korea to flourish as a knowledge-based economy and cultivate Korean culture.

When it came to inclusion, Lee emphasized, "I will never forget that the government's responsibility is to eradicate the profound divide of polarization, firmly provide a safety net that reliably supports the lives of all citizens, and ensure a fair distribution of growth's benefits." Lee expressed his unwavering commitment to honoring Kim's greatest achievements and advancing forward, regardless of the challenges that lie ahead.

Kim, who led South Korea from 1998 to 2003, was renowned for his advocacy for democracy and efforts toward reconciliation with North Korea. For his lifelong dedication to peace, Kim received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2000.