Lee stresses democracy ties ahead of Macron visit

Apr 02, 2026, 09:36 am

		0
Lee Jae-myung and Emmanuel Macron hold a summit at the Nasrec Expo Center in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Nov. 22 last year. / Yonhap

President Lee Jae-myung said April 2 that the democratic ideals born from the French Revolution have significantly influenced South Korea’s modern political development, while stressing the need to strengthen cooperation with France amid global uncertainty.

In an op-ed published in the French daily Le Figaro ahead of his summit with President Emmanuel Macron, Lee wrote, “The ideal of popular sovereignty that emerged from the French Revolution has deeply shaped the evolution of Korean democracy.”

He added, “Through the recent peaceful ‘Light Revolution,’ the principle of popular sovereignty has once again been reaffirmed,” emphasizing that democratic values serve as a key link between the two nations.

Lee also highlighted the intellectual influence of French thinkers such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Montesquieu on Korea’s political and intellectual traditions, underscoring the value-based connection between the countries.

Amid shifting global dynamics, Lee stressed that cooperation among democratic nations is no longer optional but essential. “In a time of growing division and uncertainty, partnerships among democracies are a strategic necessity,” he said, noting that the 140-year relationship between Korea and France carries significance beyond diplomatic legacy.

He also praised France’s commitment to strategic autonomy and multilateralism, saying it aligns with Korea’s democratic foundation and its rise as a technological power.

Referring to France’s role as chair of the Group of Seven (G7), Lee added, “The choices our two countries make in this era of uncertainty will be crucial in building a more stable international order.”

Meanwhile, President Macron is set to begin a two-day state visit to South Korea starting April 2.

#Lee Jae-myung #Emmanuel Macron #French Revolution #democracy #Korea France relations