President Lee Honors Kim Young-sam as Democracy's Pinnacle

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A Legacy of Democracy and Reform

President Lee Jae-myung marked the 10th anniversary of the passing of former President Kim Young-sam on the 21st, honoring his significant contributions to South Korea's democratic development. During his trip to Africa and the Middle East, President Lee conveyed a memorial message through Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik at the ceremony held at the Seoul National Cemetery. The message highlighted the enduring impact of Kim Young-sam's leadership.

Honoring a Democratic Pioneer

In his address, President Lee expressed deep respect for Kim Young-sam, referring to him as "a towering peak in the mountain range of democracy." He emphasized that Kim Young-sam was not only a "fighter for democracy" who ended the long period of military dictatorship but also a "reformer of the era" who challenged outdated systems to pave the way for progress. His unwavering stance against injustice and humility before justice left a lasting impression on the nation.

Courage and Resilience

President Lee reflected on Kim Young-sam’s resolute declaration, “Even if you twist the neck of a chicken, dawn will come,” which remains an eternal symbol of courage and indomitable spirit in South Korea’s democratization history. He noted that immediately after taking office, Kim Young-sam dismantled the Hanahoe faction, brought the perpetrators of the Gwangju Massacre to trial, and corrected South Korea’s history and the order of the democratic republic. These life-risking decisions ensured that the tragic history of military intervention in politics would not be repeated.

Economic and Social Reforms

Kim Young-sam's administration introduced significant reforms that laid the foundation for a transparent market economy. By implementing the real-name financial system and real-name real estate system, he promoted transparency and accountability. Through the public disclosure of high-ranking officials' assets, he worked to sever the chains of "dark collusion" that had dominated society. His efforts to fully implement local autonomy planted the seeds of democracy across the nation.

Cultural and National Significance

The demolition of the Japanese Government-General of Korea building under Kim Young-sam's administration helped heal deep wounds and elevate national pride. Under his leadership, South Korea emerged as an economic powerhouse with a per capita national income of 10,000 dollars. He established the foundation of a modern state where democracy and a market economy coexisted harmoniously.

Continuing the Legacy

President Lee concluded by reflecting on Kim Young-sam’s words, “Daedo Mumun (大道無門),” meaning “there is nothing to fear on the right path.” He emphasized that following in Kim Young-sam’s footsteps, the nation continues to protect the values of freedom, justice, and peace while advancing toward a better path of democracy. Despite trials and obstacles, the nation remains committed to its journey toward a more mature democratic nation and a true democratic republic.

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