President Lee Jae-myung, currently on a state visit to Singapore, emphasized on Sunday that he "promised to ensure overseas Koreans no longer have to worry about their homeland."
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), President Lee praised the contributions of overseas Koreans, stating, "The Korean Association of Singapore has served as a bridge between the two countries since its founding in 1963 by Chung Won-sang, son of independence activist Chung Dae-ho, carrying forward the noble spirit of the independence movement."
"It is deeply moving to be with our overseas compatriots in Singapore, a place steeped in profound history and pride, on this meaningful March 1st Independence Movement Day," the president wrote. He added that he asked them to "continue opening a bright future for both nations as Korea's 'civilian diplomats.'"
"I promised that our compatriots working hard to build their lives in distant foreign lands will no longer have to worry about their homeland," President Lee stated. He also pledged that "the government will provide strong support so that wherever you are, you will be respected and enjoy greater opportunities."
"Korea today exists because of our compatriots who honor our nation's name around the world," the president concluded. "Once again, I extend my deepest respect and gratitude."
President Lee is scheduled to hold a summit with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Sunday. The two nations will issue a joint declaration announcing the launch of negotiations to upgrade the Korea-Singapore Free Trade Agreement and sign five memorandums of understanding in areas including artificial intelligence, digital technology, science and technology, and small modular reactors.
Blue House spokesperson Kang Yu-jung explained that under Singapore's unique diplomatic customs, an orchid-naming ceremony aims to strengthen friendly relations with foreign nations. The orchid to be named after President Lee and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung will be called "Vanda Lee Jae Myung Kim Hea Kyung." Following this, President Lee will meet with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam before holding the summit with Prime Minister Wong, followed by an MOU exchange ceremony, joint press statement, and friendship luncheon.