South Korea’s Lee Jae Myung Honors Roh Moo-hyun at Memorial Ceremony

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Saturday pledged to carry forward the legacy of late former President Roh Moo-hyun, promising to build a society grounded in fairness, inclusion, and human dignity. He made the remarks during a memorial ceremony marking the 17th anniversary of Roh’s death in Bongha, the rural village where the former president lived after leaving office.

In his eulogy, Lee said that Roh’s ideals continue to inspire many citizens, stating that numerous “Roh Moo-hyuns” had emerged after his passing. He added that he himself considers part of that legacy, reflecting Roh’s influence on progressive politics in South Korea. The ceremony drew political leaders, supporters, and citizens who gathered to honour Roh’s contributions to democratic reforms and social equity.

Lee emphasised his commitment to advancing Roh’s vision of a just society where success is not determined by privilege, but by effort and fairness. He said his administration would work to ensure balanced national development, reducing disparities between the capital region and other parts of the country while promoting inclusive growth across all sectors of society.

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On inter-Korean relations, the South Korean President reiterated his support for peaceful engagement with North Korea, referencing the October 4 Inter-Korean Declaration signed during Roh’s presidency and the late North Korean leader Kim Jong-il. He said his government would continue to pursue peaceful coexistence and mutual development on the Korean Peninsula despite ongoing regional tensions.

Lee also pledged to push forward institutional reforms aimed at eliminating entrenched privilege and unfair practices, stating that his government would not be deterred by resistance from established interests. He said the objective was to complete the democratic and social reforms envisioned by Roh but left unfinished due to political challenges during his tenure.

Roh Moo-hyun, who served as South Korea’s ninth president from 2003 to 2008, remains a prominent figure in the country’s modern political history. He died in 2009 amid a corruption investigation involving his family and close aides, an event that deeply impacted the nation and continues to shape political discourse. Lee’s attendance at the memorial has also been seen as a continuation of his long-standing association with Roh’s political ideology, having participated in the same ceremony in previous years as well.

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