Independence Day Address

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August 15th marked Korea's Independence Day. President Moon Jae-in made his thoughts clear about the Japanese government's inadequate awareness on the history involving Korea and Japan. He also pointed out that the day Korea's provisional government was established in 1919 is actually Korea's national founding day.

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President Moon Jae-in made it clear that Korea and Japan should expand bilateral exchanges, such as frequent diplomatic meetings, and strengthen joint measures against North Korean nuclear arms. However, he also pointed out that the Japanese government's stance on historical issues is undermining the efforts to forge closer ties and that such thorny historical issues as comfort women and forced labor of Koreans must be resolved.

[Soundbite] Pres. Moon Jae-in : "There is an international principle that promises the restoration of honor and compensation for the victims, discovery of truth and prevention of recurring atrocities. The Korean government will observe this principle."

He also promised to repay veterans' devotion to the country with the highest respect and courtesy, build a memorial hall for Korea's provisional government, and increase the veterans' allowance.

[Soundbite] Pres. Moon Jae-in : "The identity of Korea will be firmly established by rewarding the patriots and the starting point of patriotism will be our veterans' policies."

President Moon also noted that the year 2019 is the centennial of the founding of the Republic of Korea and the establishment of Korea's provisional government, making it clear that the day when the provisional government was established in 1919 is the day the Republic of Korea was founded. The ceremonial address was given with 3,000 patriots and their families in attendance. Prior to attending the Independence Day ceremony, the president visited the tombs of esteemed independence fighter Kim Gu and key figures of the provisional government. Cheong Wa Dae explained that his visit represented his respect for independence activists and commitment to strengthen policies for veterans and patriots.