Religious Leaders' First Meeting: President Lee Jae-myung Emphasizes the Importance of the Religious Community's Role in Social Conflict Resolution

The humorous remarks made by Jinwoo, the Chairman of the Korean Council of Religious Leaders and Head of the Jogye Order, caught the attention of President Lee Jae-myung.

According to a briefing by Kang Yoo-jung, spokesperson for the presidential office, on the afternoon of the 9th at the Yongsan presidential office in Seoul, President Lee held a luncheon meeting with Jinwoo, along with Deoksoo, Head of the Cheontae Order, Sangjin, Head of the Taego Order, Kim Jong-hyuk, President of the Korean Church Federation, Kim Jong-saeng, General Secretary of the National Council of Churches in Korea, Lee Yong-hoon, Chairman of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Korea, Archbishop Peter Jung Soon-taek of the Archdiocese of Seoul, Na Sang-ho, Head of Won Buddhist Correction, Choi Jong-soo, Head of Sungkyunkwan, Park In-jun, General Leader of Cheondogyo, and Kim Ryeong-ha, Chairman of the Korean Ethnic Religion Council.

Emphasizing the Role of the Religious Community in Social Integration and National Stability

At this meeting, Jinwoo stated, "We should have cared for the anxious hearts of the people and brought them peace with love and compassion, but the religious community is not free from responsibility," expressing hopes that President Lee's experience and wisdom would elevate Korea to a solid foundation.

Kang added, "There was a free exchange of opinions on the religious community's role in resolving social conflicts, education, human rights, peace, fostering democratic citizens, climate crisis, balanced regional development, protecting the vulnerable, and resolving legislative conflicts." She also mentioned that the role of religion in protecting the people during difficult times such as the Japanese occupation and the democratization process was discussed, and it was noted that Korea's society, where diverse religions coexist peacefully, is something to be proud of globally.

A Friendly Atmosphere with Jinwoo's Witty Jokes

The luncheon was conducted in a friendly atmosphere throughout. In particular, Jinwoo humorously remarked, “Advisors suffer from nosebleeds, but President Lee will suffer from bleeding from the ears,” eliciting laughter from the attendees. This was a reference to Presidential Secretary Kang Hoon-sik losing approximately 5 kg since the new government started, and to National Security Office Director Wi Sung-lak experiencing a nosebleed while attending the G7 summit.

The luncheon menu was vegetarian, including dishes like cucumber, cold meat salad, black sesame, and grilled tofu, embodying the values of respect for life and non-violence. For dessert, figs symbolizing abundance, peace, rest, and religious enlightenment were served, according to Kang.

A Call for the Religious Community's Role in Social Integration

President Lee stated, "I hope that the role and contributions of the religious community will grow so that the spirit of forgiveness, reconciliation, inclusiveness, and openness permeates our society," urging the leaders to play a parental role.

In his opening remarks at the meeting, he expressed, "I expect a great role from religious leaders to ensure our society becomes a rational and more inclusive world where we respect, unite, and hold hands together." He further stated, "It has been just over a month since my inauguration, and as I worried during the election process, our society has become excessively divided and confrontational, and the conflicts are intensifying, which is indeed worrying."

President Lee mentioned, "Initially, it seems that in this one month, there is a sign of conflicts being somewhat patched up, but I cannot foresee how things will turn out if the political situation changes," emphasizing the crucial role of religious leaders. He added, "I believe that religion fundamentally seeks love and respect, and I think the role of religious leaders is in higher demand during this time than ever."

Image source: President Lee Jae-myung greets attendees at a luncheon meeting with religious leaders at the Yongsan presidential office in Seoul on the 9th / News1, News1