[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] On the 31st, President Moon Jae-in urged the 70 newly promoted brigadier generals to avoid creating any "security gaps" during the ceremony where he presented the Samjeong Sword.
At the reception following the Samjeong Sword presentation, President Moon said, "This is a period of government transition, and due to North Korea's actions that escalate tensions, security gaps may arise. Therefore, please fully consolidate our security capabilities to ensure that not even the smallest gap appears."
President Moon added, "The strength of security is not only military power but also the combined capabilities of the entire nation," and urged, "I hope you take the lead so that our national power can be demonstrated as security strength, becoming a military among the people and a military trusted by the people."
The ceremony of presenting the Samjeong Sword was first introduced during the Moon administration. President Moon said, "I have kept the promise to present the Samjeong Sword for five years," and explained, "Samjeong (三精) in Samjeong Sword means 'the Army, Navy, and Air Force united as one to achieve the three spirits of national defense, unification, and prosperity.' I ask you to fully demonstrate the diverse experiences, expertise, and outstanding leadership accumulated on our land, sea, and air."
President Moon also said, "The Samjeong Sword is in the form of the Sain Sword (四寅劍). During the Joseon Dynasty, the Sain Sword was forged by pouring molten metal at the time when the four characters of 'In' (寅) ? In Year (寅年), In Month (寅月), In Day (寅日), and In Hour (寅時) ? overlapped, symbolizing the tiger in the 12 Earthly Branches. This year is the In Year (寅年), and since the character 'In' (寅) is also in my name, this Samjeong Sword presentation is even more special," he said.
The ceremony was held under the subtitle of General Ahn Jung-geun's calligraphy "Jisainin (志士仁人) Salsinseongin (殺身成仁)," which means "A person with a noble will sacrifices their life for righteousness." This calligraphy reflects General Ahn Jung-geun's resolute feelings about the country's future while imprisoned in Yeosu Prison.
President Moon also presented bouquets composed of Malchaenamu (Chinese fringe tree), Aster, Freesia, and Phalaenopsis orchids to the families of the promoted generals, expressing deep gratitude for their silent support that allows the generals to devote themselves to the military. The flower meanings are: Malchaenamu - "I will protect you," Aster - "Trust," Freesia - "Your future," and Phalaenopsis orchid - "Happiness comes," symbolizing the hope for a military that protects the people, is trusted by them, and for happiness in the futures of the promoted officers.
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