Lee marks June 10 democracy anniversary, vows to 'faithfully serve the will of the people'

President Lee Jae Myung on Wednesday pledged that his "People's Sovereignty Government" would continue to faithfully serve the will of the Korean people and advance democracy, marking the 39th anniversary of the June 10 Democracy Movement in a Facebook post.

In the post, titled "The people, the true owners of the Republic of Korea, will always come first," Lee said the two historical events — separated by 61 years — may appear to belong to different chapters of history, but share a common thread: both were days on which popular sovereignty was clearly expressed.

He said the June 10 Independence Movement of 1926 united the Korean people across ideological, religious and generational lines. "Our forebears took to the streets even under Japanese oppression and surveillance, crying out for Korean independence and national dignity," Lee said. "Their voices spread across the country and became a spark that fueled the independence movement."

Lee said that 61 years later, the June 10 Democracy Movement of 1987 was another moment when the people stepped forward as the agents of history. "Citizens who stood against military dictatorship spoke with one voice, demanding direct presidential elections and the realization of democracy," he said. "Through that power, the Republic of Korea reached a turning point — ending military rule and moving toward democracy."

He also invoked the events of Dec. 3, 2024, saying the Korean people had once again defended democracy with their bare hands and proven the meaning and value of sovereignty. "Looking back at history, the strength that achieved national independence and the strength that built and preserved democracy both came from the people," Lee said. "On the foundation of that history, our Constitution clearly declares that all power in the Republic of Korea derives from the people."

Lee closed by reaffirming his government's commitment to the public. "The 'People's Sovereignty Government' will continue to faithfully serve the will of the people, the true owners of this nation, and work to further develop democracy," he said, adding that he pledged to improve people's lives, protect their safety and move toward a peaceful and prosperous future.