Good morning, fellow Koreans,

Our navy ship, the Cheonan, sank on March 26. As of this moment, 45 of our brave sailors are still missing.

I can''t sleep thinking about our sailors who are still trapped inside the sunken ship in cold waters. Their families are suffering deep grief beyond our imagination. No words of sympathy can possibly ease their sorrow.

The whole nation prays for their survival and awaits their safe return. They are our own sons, fathers and husbands. With such knowledge and a solemn sense of duty, our Navy has been stepping up the rescue efforts even at the risk of their lives.

Amidst such all-out rescue efforts, we have lost yet another hero. Navy Warrant Officer Han Joo-ho lost his life while carrying out a rescue mission in the cold, dark seas. He was a true sailor who was loved and respected by both his colleagues and subordinates, and who dedicated himself to defending the nation. He was the first to answer the call of duty, and he gave his life rescuing his fellow sailors and safeguarding our national security. He was a true warrior and patriot.

Warrant Officer Han, the Republic of Korea that you dearly loved will never forget you. I believe there are many more like Warrant Officer Han in our armed forces. No matter what security threats we face, we will be able to go about our everyday lives without anxiety thanks to their brave service.

I would like to convey my condolences once again to the family members who had to bid a final farewell to their beloved husband or father.

We were deeply moved by their courage even in the midst of profound grief. More than any other time in the past, we need to send our love and encouragement to the members of our armed forces. I pray for the repose of the soul of Warrant Officer Han Joo-ho.

Over the past weekend, the body of Senior Chief Petty Officer Nam Ki-hoon was found in the wreck of the ship, Cheonan. I desired so desperately to see our sailors alive. What I could not bring myself to believe became reality, and I was bitterly disappointed and shocked beyond words. How heartrending the news must have been to the families who had clung to a shred of hope!

Such a shocking development notwithstanding, the families of missing sailors asked the military authorities to stop the search and rescue operations. I clearly understand that it was a heartbreaking decision that they had reached taking into consideration the possible grief of additional families. Their decision has well demonstrated that the families of patriotic seamen have also unmatched patriotism and highly value the lives of other seamen who might take further risks.

Still, we will hold on to hope as long as, and as hard as we can.

Fellow Koreans,

The rescue operations and fact-finding into the cause of the sinking of the ship are going on at a slower pace than we had anticipated. All of us feel understandably stifled and impatient. I, myself, could not sit idly by in my office. So I made a visit to the scene despite opposition from the people around me.

Listening to the desperate appeals of the families of the missing crew, I wanted to dive into the sea myself to rescue our boys. The Government and the military clearly understand what the people really want. Thus, we will strive to get to the bottom of the incident, examining all possibilities.

Any groundless speculation or hasty conclusion will not be tolerated. Instead, the Government will make sure that the causes of the incident come to light on the basis of straight facts and clear-cut evidence through scientific and comprehensive investigation.

A joint investigation team consisting of civilian experts as well as government and military officials has already initiated its mission. Considering the responses to disasters by many advanced nations, accuracy is far more important than speed in clarifying the cause of large-scale incidents like this. Though tormenting, it is necessary for us to have patience before the findings become available.

The impact of this incident goes beyond our nation. The international community is paying keen attention to Korea at the moment. The Republic is the chair nation of the G-20 Summit this year and a party to the Six-Party Talks aimed at ending North Korea’s nuclear program. The Republic is required to fully clarify the causes of the incident to convince its own people and the international community. We have already asked for the help of experts in relevant areas from other nations.

When we surmount this adversity in a resolute manner, the international community will have more confidence in us.

Fellow Koreans,

Adding to the grief of all Koreans, another ship, the Geumyang 98, which was returning to its home port after helping the military’s search and rescue mission, also sank four days ago. The Geumyang was a fishing boat manned by fishermen who decided not to fish in order to help. Their action symbolizes the readiness of all Koreans to offer a helping hand and share pain.

With a profound feeling of gratefulness, I bow to these men who sacrificed themselves for a noble cause. The Government and the armed forces will exert utmost efforts in the ongoing search and rescue operations to find the missing crew.

The residents of Baengnyeong Island, who are very familiar with the sea routes, rose to the rescue operations putting their daily business activities aside. In this busy and anxious season of crab fishing, the islanders willingly joined the rescue mission. I offer special thanks to all those who are helping and risking their lives to bring our men home.

Tough times like these call for our resolute response and firm determination. I urge the armed forces not to let their iron-clad guard down for a single minute. I urge all Government workers to fulfill their duties in their assigned posts. They should renew their resolve to serve the people with greater dedication.

Fellow citizens,

History tells us that great nations carve out their future overcoming various crises. A few days ago, the entire nation shed tears watching the funeral service of the late Warrant Officer Han Joo-ho. Not only the military personnel but all citizens from different walks of life bowed their heads in tribute to the sublime spirit of the fallen hero who offered his life for the country.

We have to become one; we must transcend various conflicts and divisions, and carve out a bright future for the Republic. I earnestly plead with all the people, including those in politics and the media, for cooperation in the endeavor to wade through the current crisis.

Today is Arbor Day. When people plant a tree, I think they do so with a hope for a better future. In the midst of deep sorrow, I will plant a tree today reminding myself never to lose hope for a better tomorrow.

Even at this very moment, many are out there fulfilling the most dangerous of duties to protect the lives and safety of their fellow citizens. I hope we all remember their service and be grateful to them throughout the week.

Thank you very much.