(Unofficial translation) 

- After attending the ASEAN Plus Three Summit and East Asia Summit


At sea near Dokdo Island, rescue crew members from the Korea Fire Service exhibited courage and dedication while transporting a patient in need of emergency care. It is truly regrettable that they perished in the process. I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and relatives of those still missing. I promise to ensure that utmost efforts will be made to locate the crew members and others who were aboard the helicopter when it crashed.

At the recent ASEAN Plus Three Summit and East Asia Summit in Thailand, leaders of member states spoke highly of the fact that cooperation has enabled joint responses to many crises. We agreed to continue to work together closely in regard to terrorism, climate change, disaster management and the nurturing of future leaders.

Importantly, the conclusion of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership negotiations will open the door for the world’s largest free trade market and pave the way for an economic community where all work together while respecting each other’s diversity.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and I had a meaningful meeting that could be the beginning of dialogue. I have expressed my appreciation individually to each leader who sent a letter of condolence over the passing of my mother. U.S. President Donald Trump also sent a letter of condolence through National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien, in which he recalled the story of my mother seeking refuge during the Heungnam Evacuation. 

Asia’s potential resides with its traditions. The Asian spirit that simultaneously respects people and nature presents a solution for climate and environmental issues, and Asia’s spirit of sharing and cooperation marked by mutual aid leads to inclusion, thereby laying out a sustainable future. 

Asia’s cooperation will be a driving force that starts a new people-centered civilization, building upon the Western-led civilization that is oriented toward science and technology.  

Both the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit and the Mekong-Republic of Korea Summit in Busan are only 20 days away. For the success of the two summits and the future to be ushered in by Asia, I am looking forward to the people taking interest.

I am returning home while honoring the lives lost in the emergency rescue helicopter crash. I will share the sorrow of their colleagues and bereaved relatives with the people.