President Lee Myung-bak called for efforts to fight corruption and the ongoing economic downturn Sunday, saying the country cannot become an advanced nation without first getting rid of all forms of corruption.

"We must raise our moral standards in all sectors and build not just a wealthy country but a clean, righteous nation," the president said in a speech marking a 1960 democratic uprising against the country's first president, Syngman Rhee, who sought to prolong his rule by rigging election results.

The speech was read by the minister of patriots and veterans affairs, Kim Yang, in a ceremony at the National Cemetery for the April 19 Revolution in northern Seoul.

The president has often emphasized that becoming an advanced nation does not simply involve wealth.

"We must build a mature, world-class nation where minds grow along with economic wealth, and that is respected and loved by the rest of the world," Lee said.

"To this end, we must continue to change and reform, though it will be difficult for now, and resolutely part with things that may create obstacles in the future," he said.

The president noted that a strong reform drive will make coping with the ongoing economic crisis even more difficult, but said through these efforts the country will emerge from the global downturn before any other nation.

"Because we have our people who are trying to overcome the crisis through cooperation, compromise and sacrifice, I am confident our country can overcome this crisis before any other in the world," Lee said.

The president last week said there were some "positive signs" for economic recovery, citing key indicators pointing towards a slow turnaround from the fourth quarter.