President Moon: "Prolonged COVID-19 Causes Blood Supply Shortage... A Symbol of Solidarity Saving Neighbors"

[Asia Economy Reporter Son Sun-hee] President Moon Jae-in stated on the 19th, "In the process of overcoming the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), the participation of our citizens in blood donation has saved many lives. It is truly a proud and grateful matter."

On the same day, through a post titled "The History of the April 19 Revolution, Blood Donation, and Sharing" on his Facebook and other platforms, President Moon said, "Just like 60 years ago, during the May 18 Democratic Movement, citizens' blood donations saved countless neighbors and became a symbol of solidarity, and today it continues to be a symbol demonstrating our cooperation."

However, he expressed concern that "due to the prolonged COVID-19 situation, there is still a shortage of blood supply equivalent to about 8,000 people," and encouraged participation in blood donation by saying, "Blood donation is a noble act of love that protects each other's lives and the most active form of sharing."

Marking the 60th anniversary of the April 19 Revolution, President Moon reflected on its historical significance, saying, "There was a time in our country when blood was bought and sold. People made a living by selling blood," and added, "The turning point that transformed this history of blood selling into a history of blood donation was the April 19 Revolution."

President Moon explained, "On April 19, 1960, the day students rose up nationwide, history calls that Tuesday 'Bloody Tuesday.' More than 100 people died from indiscriminate shooting that day, and when there was a shortage of blood for treating the injured, citizens voluntarily stepped forward to donate blood." He continued, "Having experienced the noble actions of citizens, the Korean Red Cross started the 'Love Blood Donation Campaign' in 1961, and in 1974, switched the blood supply system from relying on blood selling to blood donation."

He concluded by writing, "It is meaningful that blood donation has developed alongside our democratic history," and added, "I am always grateful for the spirit of caring for one another."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.