Seoul: Acting President Choi Sang-mok on Saturday underscored the need for "national unity," as South Korea faces deepening conflicts and divisions. This call for unity came during the commemoration of the 1919 independence movement against Japan's colonial rule.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Choi made these remarks at a ceremony marking the March 1 Independence Movement in Seoul. He spoke on behalf of President Yoon Suk Yeol, whose official duties have been suspended following his brief imposition of martial law in December. This year marks the 106th anniversary of the pivotal nationwide uprising against Japanese colonial rule, a significant moment in Korea's history during Japan's 1910-45 occupation of the Korean Peninsula.
"Today, shadows of conflict and division are growing darker in our society," Choi stated, highlighting the ongoing protests and the increasing divide between supporters and opponents of President Yoon. He warned that ideological, generational, regional, and class-based divisions could jeopardize the nation's future if not addressed.
Choi emphasized the importance of national unity to overcome current crises and build a nation that future generations can be proud of. As the finance minister, he also addressed economic challenges, noting the downward revision of South Korea's growth outlook due to prolonged political uncertainty and rising global trade protectionism.
He highlighted the intensifying geopolitical risks, growing economic and trade uncertainties, and rapidly shifting international relations. Choi vowed that the government would accelerate economic recovery by revitalizing the livelihoods of ordinary citizens and creating more jobs.
The acting president stressed the significance of "sustainability," achievable through reform measures across various sectors and policies aimed at balanced regional development. He noted the concentration of wealth and infrastructure in the greater Seoul area as a challenge to be addressed.
Choi also expressed hope for a new chapter in South Korea-Japan relations, marking the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties between the two countries. "To effectively respond to the grave international situation, cooperation between South Korea and Japan is essential," he stated.