As you are aware, this year marks the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War.
Sixty years ago when the Korean War broke out, in responding to the United Nations’ call for helping Korea, your grandfather came to Korea which they had hardly known before. In an unfamiliar foreign land, they fought for their lives to defend freedom and democracy of Korea.
Your grandfathers have had a strong conviction for freedom and democracy, and their belief was not in vain.
Over the last 60 years, the Republic of Korea has risen from the devastation of the Korean War and achieved remarkable development both in economic and political fields. Korea has transformed itself from an aid recipient to a donor country, and is playing an ever increasing role in making the world more peaceful and prosperous.
I firmly believe that the bond of friendship forged among descendants of the Korean War veterans through this camp will lay the small but meaningful foundation for building peace not only in Korea but also in the world.
I sincerely hope this Peace Camp for Youth can allow you to realize the very value of peace and future cooperation for a better world during this camp.
Thank you.
June 2010
Yang KIM
Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs
Republic of Korea
