Yoon: "If We Uphold the Spirit of May, We Must Fight Against Threats to Democracy" (Update)

President Yoon Attends May 18 Democratic Uprising Memorial Ceremony
Spirit of May, the Essence of Liberal Democratic Constitutional Values
Expresses Gratitude to Mothers of May and Others

President Yoon Suk-yeol stated on the 18th, "If we do not fight against the internal and external challenges that bring about a crisis in democracy, it would be shameful to speak of the spirit of May." This is interpreted as condemning North Korea's repeated nuclear and missile provocations, Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine, and China's threat to invade Taiwan, emphasizing that true May spirit lies in uniting efforts to protect freedom and peace.

On the morning of the same day, at the 43rd May 18 Democratic Movement Commemoration Ceremony held at the National May 18 Democratic Cemetery in Buk-gu, Gwangju Metropolitan City, President Yoon urged, "If we do not forget and inherit the spirit of May, we must boldly confront and fight against all forces and challenges that threaten freedom and democracy, and have such practical courage."

President Yoon first said, "Today, we stand together to remember the May resistance that defended the values of liberal democracy and human rights with blood 43 years ago, and to honor the democratic spirits," paying deep respects and condolences to the sacrifices and courage of the democratic spirits.

He continued, "The liberal democracy of this land was not obtained automatically but was protected through the sacrifices and dedication of countless people. Gwangju here was a historic site that upheld the values of liberal democracy and human rights," and expressed deep condolences to the May 18 Democratic Movement veterans and bereaved families who have long carried the pain of that day in their hearts.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

President Yoon especially mentioned the "Mothers of May," who entered the National May 18 Cemetery with him that day, saying, "They are those who, despite carrying the grief of losing beloved husbands, children, and brothers, devoted their lives to ensuring that the spirit of May does not lose its light." He added, "Though the sorrowful years are beyond measure, I deeply thank those who live without losing hope."

Regarding the spirit of May, he reaffirmed national unity through liberal democracy, calling it "a precious asset that we must inherit" and "a centripetal force that binds us together," continuing from last year. President Yoon emphasized, "Through the spirit of May, we have all become one. Under the spirit of May, we are one."

President Yoon also said, "The spirit of May is realized through freedom, creativity, and innovation, leading to the industrial achievements and economic development of Gwangju and Honam," promising, "I will properly support the innovative spirit of Gwangju and Honam to achieve advancement in artificial intelligence (AI) and cutting-edge science and technology."

He added, "We must all protect and practice our liberal democracy, which faces threats and challenges, with the spirit of May, and achieve industrial advancement and economic prosperity through creativity and innovation," reiterating, "That is the way to embody the spirit of May."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

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