Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung delivered a speech at Gyeryongdae to commemorate the 77th Armed Forces Day, emphasizing the importance of a strong and self-reliant military for the Republic of Korea.

According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee expressed gratitude to the service members, independence fighters, and allied forces, including the U.S. Forces Korea and the United Nations Command, for their roles in preserving peace on the Korean Peninsula. He highlighted the historical significance of the Korean military, rooted in the efforts of independence fighters and the Liberation Army, and underscored the need for the armed forces to remain committed to protecting the nation and its people.

President Lee acknowledged past instances where the military deviated from its mission, leading to a decline in democracy and public trust. He called for the military to rebuild its reputation by adhering to democratic values and protecting the Constitution. He also pledged to strengthen institutional frameworks to ensure the military's role is aligned with protecting the people.

In his speech, President Lee outlined three major promises to enhance the country's defense capabilities. First, he committed to developing a "smart, elite, strong force" by investing in advanced weapon systems and cutting-edge technology, with a defense budget allocation of 66.3 trillion Korean won for the next year. Second, he emphasized fostering the defense industry to strengthen national defense and promote economic development. Third, he promised to improve soldiers' welfare and morale, ensuring better service conditions and compensation.

President Lee concluded by reaffirming the military's duty to protect the people, emphasizing that true military honor comes from public trust. He called for the armed forces to focus on defending peace and prosperity, becoming a force truly "of the people, by the people."