South Korean President Lee Jae‑myung vows full seizure of pro‑Japanese collaborators’ assets

President Lee Jae‑myung addressed the 71st Memorial Day ceremony at Seoul’s National Memorial Hall, saying the state has a duty to both honor those who defended the nation and punish those who betrayed the community for personal gain. He pledged to investigate and confiscate the unjustly accumulated wealth of pro‑Japanese collaborators under the recently enacted “Pro‑Japanese Asset Return Law,” stating, “We will investigate and seize the assets of pro‑Japanese anti‑national actors and set an example to prevent recurrence.”

Lee also highlighted broader support measures, including expanded benefits for veterans and injured service members, the establishment of additional medical facilities for the wounded, and increased financial aid for spouses of fallen heroes. The speech underscored the administration’s commitment to delivering tangible compensation and recognition to those who have sacrificed for South Korea.