President Lee says resolving separated families' plight cannot wait

President Lee Jae Myung emphasized on Wednesday that the predicament of families separated by the 1950-1953 Korean War is the most pressing concern for the two Koreas. He stated this during a statement commemorating the fourth Separated Families Day, delivered by Unification Minister Chung Dong-young. Lee, who is currently in New York for the 81st United Nations General Assembly, stressed that waiting any longer to address this issue is untenable.

Lee expressed the hope that families will be able to reunite and meet, regardless of their geographic locations. He urged both Koreas to put aside animosity and conflict, opting instead for respect and meaningful interaction. Lee's government will continue to advocate for this matter, even as inter-Korean relations remain stagnant.

Chung Dong-young, in his personal reflection after hearing the president's statement, mentioned being born on July 27, 1953, the day the Korean War armistice was signed. This coincidence holds significance for him, as he believes the two Koreas cannot remain in a state of war indefinitely. He added that the armistice should eventually pave the way for reunification.