Prince Harry Speaks Out for the First Time at Charity Dinner for AIDS Eradication Organization He Founded
"It Leaves Me with Immense Sadness That It Ends Like This"
[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jaehee] Prince Harry, who drew global attention by declaring independence from the British royal family, spoke out for the first time on the 19th (local time).
According to the British daily The Guardian, Prince Harry said in a dinner speech at 'Sentebale,' a charity he founded to eradicate AIDS in the African region, held in London, UK, "The decision from Buckingham Palace was not what I hoped for."
Prince Harry said, "Our hope was to continue serving the Queen, the Commonwealth, and the military without receiving public funds, but sadly, that was impossible."
He continued, "After facing numerous challenges, my wife and I had many months of conversations," and lamented, "It leaves me with immense sadness that it ended like this."
Prince Harry said, "I have not always been right, but this time, I truly had no other choice."
He appealed, "The UK is my home and a place I love, and that will never change. I hope you will listen to the truth I can share?not as a prince or duke, but as the same Harry who has grown up over 35 years, with clearer insight."
In his speech that day, Prince Harry said, "The power of the media is strong," indirectly expressing that the relentless competition among the British media played a part in his decision to leave the royal family.
Earlier, in an interview last year, Prince Harry expressed concern that Duchess Meghan might suffer similar pain to that of his mother, Princess Diana, who died in a car accident while trying to avoid paparazzi.
Queen Elizabeth II announced a statement the day before that Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan Markle will officially step down from their royal duties starting this spring.
Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan will retain their titles as Duke and Duchess of Sussex but will no longer perform royal duties or receive financial support. They are also required to repay the ?2.4 million (approximately 3.6 billion KRW) of public funds used to renovate Frogmore House at Windsor Castle.
Inside and outside the royal family, there is an interpretation that Prince Harry and his wife have "retired from the company (the royal family)."
The couple made a surprise announcement last year after spending the Christmas holidays in Canada, declaring their independence without consulting the royal family.
Prince Harry is expected to join Duchess Meghan and their son Archie in Canada within a few days.
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