President Lee Myung-bak has once again urged Japan to take responsiblity for its actions during its 1910 to 1945 colonial rule of Korea.
Marking the 67th Liberation Day here in Korea, President Lee reiterated that although Japan is Korea's close neighbor, ally and an important partner, the unresolved historical issues between the two countries are making things difficult not only for Korea and Japan, but East Asia as a whole.
In particular, with regard to the issue of so-called "comfort women"


[Interview : President Lee Myung-bak] "The issue of wartime sexual slavery by the Japanese military goes against universal human rights and historic justice. We urge the Japanese government to act responsibly on this."

This is the first time President Lee has defined the issue as a violation of the women's human rights during wartime, rather than a problem that remains between the two countries.
And as for the slowing domestic economy, the president expressed his determination to address the issue in one sentence, QUOTE: "There is a fixed tenure for politicians, but there is no tenure for taking care of the economy and people's livelihoods."


[Interview : President Lee Myung-bak] "The government and I will put the utmost priority on boosting the economy and enhancing the livelihoods of the people and make all-out efforts for this goal."

He called on businesses, workers and the political arena to support such efforts.
President Lee also made it clear that Seoul is always open to dialogue with North Korea, and stressed that the nation's liberation will ultimately be completed through peaceful reunification.
Eoh Jin-joo, Arirang News.

Reporter : jjeoh@arirang.co.kr