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President Lee Jae-myung speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the presidential office in Yongsan, Seoul, on June 24. / Source: Yonhap News

President Lee Jae-myung marked the 75th anniversary of the Korean War on June 25 with a message emphasizing that peace is no longer just an ideal, but a matter of national survival.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Lee declared, “We will firmly establish a peace regime on the Korean Peninsula so that the economy can stabilize and our citizens can live safely and with peace of mind.” He added, “We live in an era where peace equals the economy and is directly linked to the survival of our people.”

Lee underscored that “the most certain form of security is a state in which war is unnecessary—in other words, peace itself.” He stressed that reliance on military strength alone is outdated, adding, “What matters more than winning a war is not having to fight one at all.”

Reflecting on the Korean War, Lee said, “War shook the foundation of our lives. Many lost their families, were forced to flee their hometowns, and saw their peaceful lives shattered.”

Yet he also praised the nation's resilience. “Despite it all, we rose again with hope. From the ruins of war in 1953, when our per capita income was just $67, we have grown into a top-10 global economy with income exceeding $36,000 per capita,” he said.

Lee highlighted South Korea’s transformation into a donor nation for developing countries, its military strength ranked fifth in the world, its economic prowess ranked tenth, and its cultural leadership driven by K-culture. He noted that these achievements have made South Korea a model for many nations.

He emphasized that these successes did not come easily. “Today’s Republic of Korea was not built overnight. It was made possible by the sacrifices and dedication of our soldiers, war veterans, bereaved families, and citizens who endured the scars of war.”

Lee also acknowledged that those who made extraordinary sacrifices have not always received sufficient compensation. “I feel regret that we have not fully honored and supported them,” he said. “We will explore various ways to provide greater support.”

Concluding his message, Lee stated, “Creating a nation that will never again experience war is the best way to honor those sacrifices. I extend my deepest respect and gratitude to all who shed blood and sweat to protect Korea’s freedom and peace. This country will never forget you.”