Korean Dream advocates and global leaders gathered in Seoul to commemorate Korea’s 80th Liberation Day. At the evening banquet, Global Peace Foundation Chairman Hyun Jin Preston Moon urged Koreans to embrace unity and build a renewed national vision. Moreover, he emphasized that unification is essential for Korea’s future stability, prosperity, and cultural revival.
Moon honored former Korean Prime Ministers, ministers, and lawmakers who joined the event, as well as world leaders from Latin America, Asia, and the Caribbean. He highlighted that their presence symbolized international support for the Korean Dream vision. In addition, he stressed that the anniversary of liberation is not only a reflection on the past but also an opportunity to chart a new path forward.
Moon reflected on Korea’s turbulent modern history, beginning with Japanese colonial rule. He explained how the March 1st movement introduced peaceful resistance rooted in spiritual values. Furthermore, he noted that these principles later inspired independence struggles in India and civil rights campaigns in the United States. Therefore, he argued that Koreans must draw from this legacy to secure lasting peace and national renewal.
Turning to the division of the peninsula, Moon said foreign powers imposed Korea’s separation. He explained that the 38th parallel was a construct of the Cold War, not the aspiration of Koreans themselves. Consequently, he argued that the Korean Dream must now undo this legacy by fostering unity built on shared cultural and spiritual principles.
Moon then addressed South Korea’s current challenges. He warned that the low birthrate and declining family structure threaten long-term stability. Moreover, he criticized the chaebol system for creating crony capitalism and limiting economic diversity. He also pointed to heavy reliance on exports, which exposes the nation to trade risks and foreign tariffs. As a result, he argued that Korea must develop a broader domestic base to sustain growth.
However, he also outlined a hopeful vision through the Korean Dream. He said unification would expand the domestic market, unlock natural resources, and add millions of young workers. In addition, he argued that reunification could spark a “second Miracle on the Han” by blending South Korea’s technological strength with North Korea’s untapped potential.
Moon concluded by calling on the government to make the Korean Dream part of national education. He urged Koreans across the South, North, and diaspora to embrace ownership of the vision. Furthermore, he said the dream of unification could inspire not only Koreans but also people worldwide.
