President Lee Attends Sewol Remembrance Ceremony: "I Will Build a Nation That Always Protects Its People"

On the 12th anniversary of the Sewol Ferry disaster on April 16, President Lee Jae-myung pledged, "I promise to build a nation that will protect its people under any circumstances, a country where citizens can fully trust and depend on their government."

President Lee made this statement while attending the '4·16 Sewol Ferry Disaster 12th Anniversary Remembrance Ceremony' held at Hwarang Recreation Area in Ansan, Gyeonggi Province, accompanied by First Lady Kim Hye-kyung. This marks the first time an incumbent president has directly attended the Sewol Ferry disaster remembrance ceremony.

President Lee Jae-myung is returning to his seat after delivering a memorial speech at the 12th anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sewol Ferry disaster held at Hwarang Recreation Area in Ansan, Gyeonggi Province on April 16, 2026. Photo by Yonhap News

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President Lee stated, "We have all witnessed firsthand what can happen when a nation fails to fulfill its duty to protect the lives and safety of its people," adding, "We must never forget the mistakes and the heavy lessons of that day, and I am determined to ensure that such a tragedy is never repeated."

He continued, "The very reason for the existence of a nation is to protect the lives and safety of its people," and declared, "I will firmly uphold this fundamental principle, which is so self-evident. When it comes to life and safety, I will not allow even the smallest gap."

President Lee also emphasized, "We will achieve tangible and concrete changes that the people can truly feel," and added, "I am convinced that fulfilling this promise is the way to complete the unfinished task that the Sewol Ferry has left us."

He expressed his respect to the bereaved families, saying, "I bow my head in deep respect to all of you who have devoted yourselves to building a safer society while recording each and every memory in the midst of profound sorrow after losing your loved ones."

Additionally, President Lee said, "It is beyond my ability to fathom the immense pain and longing you have endured every single day over these many years," and continued, "As the President of the Republic of Korea, I feel a grave sense of responsibility."

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