South Korean President Lee Jae Myung Announces People’s Sovereignty Day

On a historic day marked by the launch of the presidential Light Committee at Cheong Wa Dae, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung made a groundbreaking announcement. The government will designate December 3 as People’s Sovereignty Day to commemorate citizens who resisted the 2024 martial law declaration and preserve the country’s democratic values.

Lee made the announcement during a citizen event on Constitution Day, emphasizing the significance of the people’s role in upholding the country’s democratic principles. He stated, ‘The government of popular sovereignty will firmly uphold the most basic and fundamental principle that the people are the owners of the country.’

Lee’s Commitment to Democracy

Lee emphasized the importance of ensuring that democracy and popular sovereignty are never threatened again. He declared, ‘No one should attempt to stand above the Constitution.’

The president’s commitment to democracy is evident in his establishment of the presidential Light Committee in March to promote projects preserving the spirit of citizens who opposed the December 3, 2024, martial law declaration. Park Mi-kyung, chairwoman of the Gwangju Federation for Environmental Movement, was appointed to lead the committee.

Lee recalled the citizens who rushed to the National Assembly after martial law was declared, remained outside the legislature for several nights over concerns that martial law could be imposed again, and participated in outdoor demonstrations calling for the president’s impeachment during the winter. He praised the citizens, saying, ‘The great people of our country chose solidarity over division, peace over violence, and action over silence.’

They clearly demonstrated that South Korean democracy may be shaken, but it will never collapse.’ Lee said the committee will preserve and document what his administration calls the ‘Revolution of Light,’ referring to the public movement opposing martial law. He added, ‘Through the Light Committee launched Monday, we will remember and record this great history for generations.’

The government will designate December 3 as People’s Sovereignty Day so citizens can remember the events together each year. Lee said, ‘This will allow the values of democracy to be fully passed down to future generations forever.’

Preserving Democracy for Future Generations

The president announced plans to systematically collect and preserve records related to the public opposition to martial law. The government will develop a digital archive to document citizen participation and promote South Korea’s democratic experience internationally.

Lee described the country’s model of citizen-led democracy as ‘K-democracy.’ He expressed hope that the ‘brilliant lights of many colors that our citizens raised in the streets and public squares will become a bright beacon illuminating democracy around the world, beyond South Korea.’

This historic announcement by President Lee Jae Myung marks a significant step towards preserving democracy in South Korea and promoting its values globally.