President Lee Meets Korean Community in Italy: "Serious Issue That Overseas Koreans Cannot Vote... Will Work to Resolve"

On the 15th (local time), President Lee Jae-myung stated, "It is a very serious issue that citizens of the Republic of Korea, who are the rightful holders of national sovereignty, cannot exercise their right to vote or to exercise their sovereignty due to administrative problems," adding, "I will do my utmost to resolve this issue as quickly as possible."

President Lee made these remarks at a meeting with Korean compatriots held at a hotel in downtown Rome on the afternoon of the same day (local time), emphasizing, "I will also work to resolve the issue of overseas voting as swiftly as possible."

President Lee Jae-myung is delivering an encouragement speech at a meeting with overseas Koreans held at a hotel in Rome on June 15, 2026.6.15 Yonhap News Photo by Yonhap

President Lee also said, "I assure you that we will take even greater care in protecting overseas Koreans and providing consular assistance." He further explained that he had requested the Italian government to address current issues affecting the Korean community, such as the protection of overseas Koreans, English-language driver's licenses, and residency qualifications.

Additionally, President Lee pledged, "We plan to take prompt and robust measures to ensure that adopted compatriots and their children can remain connected to their homeland and can easily revisit their roots and past," promising, "If necessary, we will even pursue legal amendments to minimize your discomfort and sense of isolation."

President Lee also shared, "Yesterday in Florence, someone told me how proud they are of Korea," and continued, "There was a time when it was uncomfortable to answer if someone asked if you were Korean. However, now, wherever you go, you can feel the economic, cultural, and global stature of Korea."

Addressing the Korean community in Italy, President Lee said, "Each and every one of you represents the dignity of Korea," and emphasized, "You are the strength that connects Korea and Italy, and I believe you are the strongest roots of our diplomacy." He further declared, "The government will work even harder to ensure that the solid trust you have built receives the recognition it deserves and will continue to support you."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.