President Park Geun-hye attended the 64th Korean War Commemoration ceremony at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts in Gwanghwamun on June 24.


During her speech, President Park introduced Robert Maurer, a U.S. Korean War veteran. "Maurer had three brothers, all of whom took part in the Korean War," she said. "Two of them returned home safely, but the other one is still missing. I hope that the bodies of missing war veterans, both from Korea and the U.N. forces, presumably buried somewhere in this land, will be returned to their families as soon as possible," she continued. "The Korean government will continue with the excavation of remains."

President Park added that, "Your invaluable sacrifices and dedication made it possible for us to safeguard the country. The Korean government will repay you for your sacrifices and efforts and come up with new measures for those who dedicated themselves during the war for this country but haven't received any benefits or recognition for their national service."



Finally, she emphasized that her government will strive for a change in attitude of the North Korean government, based upon a sound security system. "Keeping peace on the Korean Peninsula is a cherished hope for Korean citizens and war veterans. We will look to dismantle the barriers of distrust between the North and the South and lay the groundwork for peaceful reunification," stressed President Park.

By Wi Tack-whan, Lee Seung-ah
Korea.net Staff Writers
whan23@korea.kr