0
President Lee Jae-myung delivering a congratulatory speech at the opening ceremony of the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Busan on the 19th. / Yonhap News

President Lee Jae-myung stated on July 19 that "the spirit of the UNESCO Constitution points to the exact same place as the insight of Baekbum Kim Koo, who sought to realize peace through culture and lead human harmony," adding, "We will carry on Kim's vision as a nation that contributes to global peace and prosperity through the power of high culture."

Attending the opening ceremony of the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Busan on the afternoon of July 19, President Lee remarked, "It is by no means a coincidence that the World Heritage Committee is being held in the Republic of Korea this year, which marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of Baekbum Kim Koo."

President Lee described world heritage as a foundation for peace and cooperation that connects the global community.

"World heritage is not merely an artifact of the past, but a symbol that binds humanity together across borders and generations, and a solid foundation for practicing peace and cooperation among nations," Lee said.

He emphasized, "In the process of remembering and preserving world heritage together, we can respect each other's history and further strengthen trust and solidarity within the human community."

The President also reiterated the role of culture. "In an era groaning under conflict and division, the value of dialogue through culture becomes even more precious," Lee said. "Culture is the most powerful force that allows us to understand and empathize with one another, transcending any language or border."

He continued, "The Republic of Korea has leaped forward as a brilliant cultural powerhouse, moving people around the globe with our stories. Based on the power of our high culture, we will safeguard humanity's precious heritage together and carry on Kim's vision as a nation contributing to world peace and prosperity."

President Lee also highlighted the historical significance of the host city, Busan. He described Busan as a place that "shouldered the nation's destiny as the wartime capital during the Korean War and laid the foundation for growth and prosperity as a gateway for international aid."

He added, "Busan itself serves as living proof of how international cooperation can transform the destiny of a city and a nation."

Prior to the ceremony, President Lee met with UNESCO Director-General Khaled al-Anany in Busan that afternoon to discuss ways to expand cooperation in education, science, and culture.

"The Republic of Korea grew with the help of UNESCO and has now become a country that contributes back to the world," Lee said. "The Republic of Korea will fully make its own contributions within the framework of UNESCO's role."

                                                                                                       Park Young-hoon