A display shows notes and wishes for Korean unification at an event marking the third annual North Korean Defectors' Day in Goyang on Tuesday. Photo by Yonhap
President Lee Jae Myung said Tuesday the experience of understanding North Korean-born citizens in South Korea will become a "special asset" to prepare for a future shared by the two Koreas.
Lee made the remarks in a written address delivered by Lim Woong-soon, the second deputy director of the National Security Office, in commemoration of the day for North Korean defectors, which falls on July 14.
"The experience of understanding and trusting one another in a new community will lay the foundation for social integration and serve as a valuable asset in preparing for a future in which South and North Korea live together," Lee said.
"We will establish lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula and move steadily toward shared prosperity for the two Koreas," the president said, adding that he will make all-out efforts to usher in a future of "coexistence and cooperation" beyond conflict and confrontation.
