In his Memorial Day address, President Yoon Suk Yeol emphasized the need for South Korea to strengthen itself in order to bring about change in North Korea and free its people. He highlighted the suffering of North Korean compatriots and stressed that peace can only be achieved through strength, not submission. President Yoon expressed the belief that a unified Republic of Korea could be realized through this approach, ultimately leading to the restoration of freedom and human rights for North Koreans. He also condemned recent provocations by North Korea and pledged to maintain a strong defense posture in collaboration with the international community. During the ceremony, opposition leaders criticized the Yoon administration's North Korea policies, particularly the decision to fully suspend the 2018 inter-Korean military pact. They emphasized the importance of preventing conflicts and maintaining peace, expressing regret over the tit-for-tat action taken in response to North Korea's actions. Democratic Party of Korea chair Rep. Lee Jae-myung stressed the need to prioritize preventing conflicts, while minor Rebuilding Korea Party chair Rep. Cho Kuk questioned the decision to break the pact in response to North Korea's actions, emphasizing the importance of peace over honoring war heroes.