By Lee Hana
Photos=Prime Minister's Office

Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon on June 25 said, "We are forever indebted to the countless veterans who fought alongside Koreans with love for humanity in their hearts, and to the 63 nations that dispatched medical teams and provided supplies during the (Korean) War."

Lee was speaking in a ceremony to mark the 67th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War. The event was attended by some 5,000 people, including Korean War veterans, delegations representing nations that sent soldiers to fight in the conflict on South Korea's side and other dignitaries.

"The Moon Jae-in administration will be even more dedicated to veterans who fought for our country. We also hope to strengthen ties with all countries that were directly involved in the Korean War. We will not forget that sincere devotion to our patriots and veterans is what forms a solid foundation for national security," he said.



Adding that the country has taken a hopeful step forward, Lee said, "June 25, 1950, marked the start of the tragedy of war, but on June 25, 2017, we are determined to begin a new era of peace and prosperity. This belief will bring the citizens of our country together and lead us down the path of mature democracy, toward a peaceful future."

On North Korea's nuclear weapon and missile threats, the prime minister said, "Pyongyang needs to stop developing its nuclear and missile capabilities. It should come forward for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula."

hlee10@korea.kr