“As always, I will go together with the people.”

Here comes May again. I recollect the past year of the Republic of Korea and the year as President. It was truly an event-filled year.

It was the year we strived to rectify long-running evils and create a properly functioning country. It was the year we strived to firmly uphold historic justice, heal the wounds and pursue reconciliation. It was the year we strived to break free from fear of nuclear weapons and war and bring about sustainable peace. It was the year we strived to demonstrate to the world our potential by making the Olympics and Paralympics a success. More than anything else, it was the year we tried to give the people a sense of pride in being citizens of the Republic of Korea.

Yet we still have a long way to go. There seems to be little change in the everyday lives of the people. What I truly wish at this point is that the past one year was a time for the people to cherish a new hope that changes are undoubtedly taking place and that we are moving toward the right direction. 

Being fearful of and resistant to the changes we resolve to make, a mighty force is pulling us back from behind. I believe, however, we can move forward if the people hold our hands tightly as they have done so far. It is the people that are now transforming the world. It is also the people that are making a just Republic of Korea. I join the forces with them. 

For the past one year, I received much more love than I deserved. I will never forget the fact that the people helped found the Moon Jae-in Administration. I will remember the chants in the Plaza during the candlelight rallies. When I am about to complete my term, I certainly want to hear, “A lot of things have changed. My life has gotten better.” I hope that peace is a part of everyday life. 

On a return flight from Japan, I am again renewing the commitment I had on this day a year ago.