Changwon: President Lee Jae Myung said Sunday the government will step up efforts to identify more activists who took part in the democracy movement of 1960 and ensure they receive proper compensation and recognition. Lee made the pledge during a ceremony marking the 66th anniversary of the March 15 Democracy Movement in the southeastern city of Changwon. He is the first sitting president to attend the ceremony since it was designated a national memorial day in 2010.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee offered an apology and comforting words to the bereaved families of the victims who suffered due to state violence. He emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices made during the movement, which began as protests against election fraud under then President Rhee Syng-man. These demonstrations eventually led to the April 19 Revolution, resulting in Rhee's ouster.

Lee stated that the government would continue to honor those involved in the 1960s democracy movement to ensure their spirit is preserved for future generations. He mentioned plans to grant awards, preserve historical records, and provide proper recognition for participants of the March 15 Democracy Movement and the April 19 Revolution.

He also connected the movement's lessons to contemporary events, referring to the political crisis on Dec. 3, 2024, when citizens defended democratic values against former President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief imposition of martial law. Yoon was sentenced to life in prison for leading an insurrection related to this martial law attempt.

Lee highlighted the resilience of Korean democracy and commemorated Dec. 3, 2024, as a day when citizens overcame adversity. Prior to the ceremony, he paid his respects by laying a wreath at the national cemetery honoring victims and activists.