President Lee Jae-myung pledged on Thursday, Parents' Day, to build "a nation where citizens are happy, where the state and community share responsibility together, rather than a society that relies on the one-sided sacrifice of parents."
"Going forward, we will care for the lives of parents more attentively and devotedly, and continue to expand practical systems and support," Lee said.
Speaking at the 54th Parents' Day ceremony held at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Seoul, and in a social media post uploaded just before the event, Lee said, "Only in a country where raising children is not a burden to parents, and supporting parents is not a burden to children, can everyone affirm tomorrow's life and dream of a better future." It was the first time a presidential couple had attended the Parents' Day ceremony together.
Lee choked up as he addressed the parents of fallen firefighters and police officers in attendance, saying, "On Parents' Day, when we should be sharing the warm feelings we could not convey before, there are those suffering and longing for family members they can no longer meet." He continued to fight back tears as he offered words of consolation, prompting attendees to wipe away tears as well.
"In the face of the sorrow of having to send a beloved child ahead, I know well that no words can fully offer consolation," Lee said. "I will solemnly remember the noble sacrifice of the deceased, who fulfilled their duty to the end at the most dangerous scenes."
Before his address, Lee pinned carnations, conveying comfort and respect, on the chests of the parents of public servants who died in the line of duty. "I pinned carnations on the bereaved families today with the resolve that the state will fulfill the duty and responsibility of a child and stay by your side to the end," Lee explained, asking attendees for "warm applause of comfort and encouragement."
Emphasizing the need for elderly welfare, Lee said, "The People's Sovereignty Government is preparing institutional measures to ensure a healthy and vibrant later life, including 'community-integrated care,' 'dementia safe asset management services,' a record-high '1.15 million jobs for the elderly,' and the improvement of unreasonable pension systems."
