During a speech on the occasion of Buddha’s Birthday on the 24th, President Lee Jae Myung said, “A government based on the will of the people will use the Buddha’s valuable teachings as a source of guidance,” and emphasized, “We will build a country that pays more attention to the lives of every individual and hears the voices of the most vulnerable.”
The president delivered these comments during his participation in the ‘Buddhist Year 2570 (2026) Buddha’s Birthday Celebration Ceremony’ held at Jogyesa Temple on that day. President Lee stated, “The teachings of the Buddha have long been part of our lives through both happiness and hardship, providing healing for the nation’s pain during times of crisis and sorrow, and serving as a sanctuary for the marginalized. Even in the face of war, poverty, disasters, and social conflicts, the lights of temples never went out. That is why, when people feel exhausted by life, they can stop before temples and discover inner peace.”
He stated, “The Buddha’s teachings, which promote understanding instead of rejection and harmony rather than conflict among all living beings, have served as a strong foundation that has made our society a more robust community.” Referring to the Buddha’s words, “Hate does not end through hate; hate ends through compassion,” he continued, “Our society today urgently requires the spirit of empathy and understanding that brings together different perspectives, along with a compassionate heart that pursues coexistence and mutual growth rather than individual survival.”
President Lee pledged, “We will do our utmost to build a government that saves the lives of the people and practice the teaching that ‘all beings are noble and everyone is equal.’” He continued, “We will deeply cherish the spirit of Won-Yung-Hoe-Tong (圓融會通) and overcome the nation’s crises with unified strength. I hope the lotus lamps illuminating the country today will become lights of hope connecting hearts, brightening the Republic of Korea as a warmer community.”
Earlier that day, President Lee also shared on Facebook, “The teachings of the Buddha, which originated on the path, have long been with us through times of happiness and hardship,” emphasizing the values of Won-Yung-Hoe-Tong and unity.
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