On Korean War anniversary, president prioritizes peace for national security

President Lee Jae Myung speaks during a Cabinet meeting held at the presidential office in Seoul, Tuesday. Yonhap

Marking the 75th anniversary of the Korean War’s outbreak, President Lee Jae Myung underscored the vital importance of peace, saying the strongest form of national security is creating conditions that eliminate the need for conflict.

In a message posted Wednesday on his official Facebook page, Lee highlighted the limitations of relying solely on military strength in today’s security environment.

“The era of defending a nation solely through military power is now behind us,” he wrote. “Winning without fighting is more important than winning through conflict.”

Reflecting on the devastation of the 1950–1953 Korean War, Lee spoke of the enduring pain and loss suffered by millions. Despite this painful history, he highlighted the resilience and determination of the Korean people in rebuilding the nation.

"We rose again with hope, overcame our scars and moved forward toward a better tomorrow,” he added.

The president highlighted South Korea’s remarkable progress since the war’s end. In 1953, per capita income stood at just $67, but the country has since grown into a global economic leader, with annual per capita earnings now topping $36,000.

He noted that South Korea became the first former aid recipient to join the OECD as an official donor country, calling it a symbol of the nation’s emergence as a model for developing countries worldwide.

Graves of fallen soldiers are adorned with national flags and flowers at Seoul National Cemetery in Seoul, Tuesday. Yonhap

Lee also acknowledged the sacrifices of South Korean soldiers, veterans and bereaved families, expressing regret that their contributions have not always received full recognition or adequate compensation.

“We must do more to support those who made extraordinary sacrifices for the country,” he said, pledging to seek new ways to strengthen that support.

He concluded by emphasizing that peace is not just a moral imperative, but a foundation for economic and social stability.

“Creating a country that never again experiences war is the most meaningful way to honor the sacrifices of the past,” he said. “Peace today is directly tied to economic strength and the safety of our people. I am committed to building a lasting peace framework on the Korean Peninsula so that our citizens can live secure, prosperous lives.”

Political leaders attend a ceremony marking the 75th anniversary of the Korean War at Daejeon Convention Center in Daejeon, Wednesday. From right, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik, Democratic Party of Korea's interim leader and floor leader Kim Byung-kee and People Power Party's interim chief Kim Yong-tae are among the participants. Yonhap

Leaders from both the ruling and opposition parties also came together at a commemorative ceremony in Daejeon, each issuing messages honoring the fallen, pledging support for veterans and reaffirming the importance of national security in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.

Ruling Democratic Party of Korea interim leader and floor leader Kim Byung-kee attended a commemorative ceremony earlier at the Daejeon Convention Center, where he met with Korean War veterans and delivered a message of gratitude and renewed commitment.

“As President Lee Jae Myung pledged, the DPK will not forget the extraordinary sacrifices made by those who fought for the country,” Kim said. “We will reexamine whether they are receiving proper compensation and recognition, and correct any shortcomings we find.”

Main opposition People Power Party interim chief Kim Yong-tae also attended the ceremony, highlighting the nation’s lasting debt to those who defended South Korea’s freedom during the war.

“Countless citizens gave their lives, their blood and their sweat to protect our liberal democratic system,” the PPP leader told reporters after the event. “We owe them our deepest gratitude.”

Reflecting on the historical context of the war, Kim recalled the devastating surprise attack by North Korea in 1950 and vowed that his party would never forget the sacrifices made.

He also drew a parallel with recent global conflicts, referencing the temporary ceasefire between Israel and Iran.

“That ceasefire reminded me of the importance of peace based on strength. Dialogue grounded in a position of military superiority is crucial," he said, adding that despite changes in government, the principle of “peace through strength” must continue to guide inter-Korean policy.