▲ President Lee Jae-myung delivers remarks at a meeting with the Korean community held at a hotel in Rome, Italy, on June 15 (local time).
President Lee Jae-myung, who is on an official visit to the Vatican, met with Korean residents in Italy during a luncheon meeting to offer his encouragement.
With public interest in suffrage rising, particularly in light of the recent shortage of ballots, President Lee emphasized that overseas citizens should not face difficulties in exercising their right to vote.
In his opening remarks, President Lee promised, "It is a truly serious issue that citizens of the Republic of Korea and sovereign individuals are unable to exercise their voting rights—unable to exercise their sovereignty—due to administrative problems," adding, "I will make efforts to ensure this is resolved as quickly as possible."
Meanwhile, President Lee noted, "There was a time in the past when it was burdensome to answer when asked if I was Korean, but now I feel the status of the Republic of Korea wherever I go," and added, "This is the result of your (the Korean community's) efforts, as well as the blood, sweat, and tears of the Korean people."
He further emphasized, "There are few societies that change as rapidly as the Republic of Korea. After being liberated from colonial rule, didn't we achieve not only economic success in a short period but also a democracy that the whole world envies?" and added, "We must cultivate it well so that the next generation can also live with pride."
He continued, "Each and every one of you is the dignity of the Republic of Korea and the most reliable root of our diplomacy," and promised to focus on protecting overseas citizens and providing consular support.
President Lee also mentioned, "I spoke directly to the Italian Prime Minister regarding issues such as English driver's licenses. Although there are some obstacles, it is clear that they are making efforts," adding, "I will also strongly push for initiatives to help adopted Koreans connect with their motherland."
In this context, President Lee encouraged officials by saying, "I have instructed overseas diplomatic missions to strengthen communication, but it still seems insufficient," and added, "Many overseas residents feel that diplomatic missions are cold. Even if they cannot be as warm as a home, shouldn't they at least have the kindness and proactiveness of a local community service center?"
Meanwhile, during the subsequent private meeting, Park I-tae, head of the Guide Association, expressed his gratitude, saying, "Regarding the petition for official guide certifications that the President mentioned during his meeting with Prime Minister Meloni last Friday, we received a response from the Italian side yesterday, even though it was a holiday."
In response, President Lee said, "Prime Minister Meloni's speed in handling work is astonishing," and added, "I was surprised that the depreciation system, which was discussed during her visit to Korea, was resolved. The Lee Jae-myung administration in Korea is also known for being fast, but Italian Prime Minister Meloni seems even faster."
Carlo Colombo, head of a Korean adoptee organization in Italy, said, "We can never forget our roots, and we have never once not been Korean," adding, "I hope all Korean adoptees feel recognized in both of their homelands. We are grateful to Italy for accepting us, and we are grateful to Korea for finding us again."
Following this, he shared his experience of visiting Korea for the first time in 50 years with his son, and Kang Yu-jung, Senior Presidential Spokesperson, reported in a written briefing that President Lee and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung were moved to tears.
President Lee offered his comfort, saying, "I will strive to better understand the painful hearts of adopted compatriots."
(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.