President Lee Jae-myung Hosts Luncheon for National Heroes and Veterans' Families at Cheong Wa Dae

President Lee Jae-myung opened the Cheong Wa Dae State Guesthouse for the first time since his inauguration, hosting a luncheon for national heroes and veterans' families.

During the luncheon, President Lee emphasized, "The lives dedicated to the country will now be protected by the state."

On the 27th, President Lee invited over 160 national heroes and veterans' families to the Cheong Wa Dae State Guesthouse for a shared meal. President Lee welcomed these guests, conveying respect as he greeted each person with a 90-degree bow.

In addition, he addressed key attendees by name to express his admiration. Notably, he praised the name of former Captain Choi Won-il of the Cheonan ship, calling them "heroes who defended the West Sea" and encouraging applause.

The event was attended not only by veterans and their families but also by bereaved families of those involved in significant events such as the Cheonan sinking incident, the Yeonpyeong naval battle, the April 19 Revolution, and the May 18 Democracy Movement.

President Lee also introduced Kim Gil-ja, the mother of the late Jeon Dae-hee, referenced in the novel "A Boy Comes," saying, "Whenever I visit Gwangju, I often meet her, and she says my child resembles hers, who was only a year older."

Former Captain Choi noted that during the administrations of Presidents Moon Jae-in and Yoon Suk-yeol, the families of the May 18 victims had not received invitations to presidential luncheons related to 'June, the Month of Patriotic Martyrs' in both administrations.

According to SBS, an official from the presidential office explained the significance of the invitation, stating, "There should be no partisan logic in honoring sacrifices and dedication to the country."

In an interview with MBC, Former Captain Choi stated, "This is my first time attending an event hosted by a progressive government," expressing hope for being introduced as a hero by President Lee.

Furthermore, in his speech that day, President Lee pointed out that our society has been excessively neglectful of those who have sacrificed and dedicated themselves for the nation and its members.

President Lee remarked, "It is often said that 'If you engage in independence movements, three generations will be ruined, but collaborating with Japan will prosper three generations.' We must not think that way anymore," emphasizing the importance of honoring and compensating national heroes.

He reiterated the necessity for appropriate recognition and compensation for national heroes, stating, "Only with proper respect can individuals who are willing to sacrifice and dedicate themselves arise when the nation and community are in crisis."

Image source: Presidential Office