A coalition of South Korea’s top religious leaders has called on the nation’s newly inaugurated president, Lee Jae-myung, to prioritize national unity and inclusive governance in the wake of months of political turmoil. The appeal came during a joint statement released on 4 June, the day of Lee’s swearing-in following a snap election triggered by the removal of former president Yoon Suk Yeol.
The Korean Council of Religious Leaders, which includes representatives from the nation’s Buddhist, Catholic, and Protestant communities, underscored the urgency of healing societal divisions and restoring public trust after Yoon’s controversial declaration of martial law in April. That move was widely condemned and led to his impeachment and removal by South Korea’s Constitutional Court.
Citing public discontent over the economy and political unrest, the Council said in a statement: “We hope to see a president who understands the need for unity and who can listen to different voices to lead this country out of a crisis.” (The Korea Herald)
Among the signatories was Venerable Jinwoo, president of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, the country’s largest Buddhist order. Ven. Jinwoo urged President Lee to focus on “people’s livelihood” as a foundation for governance. “An approach with that in mind should be able to restore people’s trust in the government,” he stated. (The Korea Herald)
Catholic Bishop Mathias Lee Yong-hoon, who serves as president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Korea, echoed the call for unity and legal accountability. Referring to deeply problematic aspects of the recent imposition of martial law, Bishop Lee emphasized the importance of leadership rooted in justice and peace, encouraging Lee to seek renewed dialogue with North Korea amid strained inter-Korean relations.
South Korea, where approximately 17 per cent of the population identifies as Buddhist, 20 per cent as Protestant, and 11 per cent as Catholic according to survey data from 2024, has a long history of religious leaders contributing to civic discourse. While the country is constitutionally secular, religious organizations have frequently acted as moral voices on national issues, particularly during times of political instability.
Leaders from major Protestant denominations also voiced their expectations for the new administration. Rev. Kim Jong-seng, general secretary of the National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK), highlighted the need for greater social inclusion as the country works to recognize marginalized groups such as people with disabilities and migrants. And Rev. Kim Jong-hyuk, president of the United Christian Churches of Korea, urged improved government communication after the perceived failures of the previous administration to engage in public consultation.
Na Sang-ho, head of the Won Buddhist order, also contributed to the interfaith statement, emphasizing the need for tolerance and inclusion. Na stated: “A country built on hope and harmony is ushered in by a leader embracing differences.” (The Korea Herald)
Also reaching out with words of support, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who said:
Today the world is passing through very challenging times, even as there is a growing sense of interdependence and the oneness of humanity across the world. A lasting peace in the Korean peninsula is of vital importance to the entire world. I am sure you will continue to make persistent efforts to secure lasting peace in the region through diplomacy and dialogue.
In recent years, a growing number of Korean Buddhists has shown an interest in studying at the Centres of Learning we have re-established in India. Meanwhile, I regularly meet Korean Buddhist brothers and sisters who come to India on pilgrimage.
I wish you every success in meeting whatever challenges lie ahead, fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people of South Korea, and contributing to a more harmonious, peaceful world. (His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet)
With more than 50 per cent of South Koreans identifying with a religion and religious groups playing influential roles in civil society, the unified call for reconciliation and public trust may help shape the early trajectory of Lee’s presidency. The coming weeks are expected to offer a clearer picture of how these appeals will translate into policy actions and governance strategies.
See more
Faith leaders urge unity as President Lee Jae-myung takes office (The Korea Herald)
Congratulating the President of the Republic of Korea (His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet)
Who is Lee Jae-myung, South Korea’s new president? (Al Jazeera)
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