Bongha: President Lee Jae Myung on Saturday vowed to continue the legacy of late former President Roh Moo-hyun by building a nation founded on fairness, inclusion, and respect for human dignity. "After you left, so many 'Roh Moo-hyuns' were born and I am one of them," Lee said in his eulogy delivered at a ceremony marking the 17th anniversary of Roh's death held in the southeastern rural village of Bongha, where the late president lived after his retirement.

According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee expressed his commitment to realizing Roh's vision of a society where success is achievable without privilege, hard work is justly rewarded, and people embrace one another regardless of background. He emphasized the importance of balanced development that allows both the capital region and the rest of the country to prosper together. "As president, I feel the immense responsibility and weight that comes with the position. I will carry on your legacy," Lee declared, pledging to fulfill the unaccomplished dreams left by Roh.

On the topic of North Korea, Lee reaffirmed his dedication to the spirit of the Oct. 4 Inter-Korean Declaration, a significant accord signed by Roh and late North Korean leader Kim Jong-il, aimed at improving inter-Korean relations and reducing military tensions. "We will firmly walk on the path toward peaceful coexistence and mutual growth," he stated, underscoring his commitment to fostering peace and collaboration between the two Koreas.

Roh Moo-hyun, a liberal politician who served as president from 2003 to 2008, tragically ended his life in 2007 amid a corruption investigation involving his family and aides. Lee, who attended the same memorial event last year as the presidential candidate of the Democratic Party, continues to draw inspiration from Roh's leadership and ideals.