It is a distinct honor and a great pleasure to welcome you to the ceremony marking the 78th anniversary of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Let me begin in an unconventional way: the Polish writer Bolesław Prus once said that "anniversaries are the elevations in the landscape of our lives." These are moments that cannot be met with indifference—exceptional occasions that invite reflection and contemplation. Today, we have the opportunity to commemorate the 78th anniversary of the founding of a state that is truly unique, one that had no precedent in the historical models or experiences of other nations. On this 78th anniversary, it is worth recalling the unique aspects of the DPRK’s founding and development; it is also worth examining the present and tracing its foundations back to the glorious history of the DPRK’s inception. After all, every jubilee bridges tradition and modernity, experience and youth. Yet, a defining characteristic of the DPRK’s history—both past and present—is that the social development of the People's Korea, alongside its economic growth, rests on strong and enduring foundations. In this sense, the past and present converge, creating a basis—even amidst the many mounting international threats—to look toward the future with optimism.
This optimistic perspective is grounded in the facts of the DPRK’s current strength and its great historical legacy. In this view, the DPRK has never been merely a government-administered entity or an institution; rather, it has always been a cohesive community—a national collective united in heart and mind—forged by generations of great fighters. This lineage spans from the anti-Japanese struggle for liberation (1926–1945) led by the founder and Great Leader Kim Il Sung, through the heroic struggle in the war unleashed by American imperialism (1950–1953), to the generations of builders who dedicated their skills, enthusiasm, and hearts to constructing a new, socialist Korea based on the Juche idea. It is thanks to these people that today’s Korea enjoys the status of a fully sovereign, independent, and self-reliant state. These generations responsible for the DPRK’s current success did not ask "whether" to strive for excellence, but "how"; they found the answer in the Juche philosophy—a philosophy of epochal significance that, for the first time in the history of human thought, elevated the human being to the high and rightful status they deserve.
The list of those who have left an enduring mark on the history of the DPRK—those who built, developed, and supported it—is long. Many heroes of the Korean War sacrificed their lives for the current independence of the people's Korea. Although many are no longer with us, they left behind an indelible legacy and immortal deeds, the significance and magnitude of which we continue to discover to this day. Much could be said about the glorious history of the DPRK. Over the years, it has transformed, becoming ever more beautiful and ever more socialist. Yet, in essence, it has remained the same: a sovereign state of the people. It is not only a vital and indispensable part of the geopolitical landscape of Asia but also a part of our own lives, as we serve a great and glorious cause through our work with the Korean Friendship Association.
Distinguished guests gathered here today to mark the 78th anniversary of the founding of the DPRK!
This day—marking the 78th anniversary of the DPRK’s founding—reminds us that in any state, viewed as a socio-political entity, the human being is paramount; the popular masses, who create history and serve as its driving force, are what matter most. Those who forget this, or attempt to act in defiance of this immutable truth revealed by the Juche idea, will pay a heavy price. We already see this price being paid in the deepening social divisions and the mounting crisis of the global capitalist camp—a camp that increasingly directs the rage born of its failures—failures resulting from acting against the inexorable laws of history—toward militarism and war.
An anniversary is also an occasion for joy and hope regarding the years of magnificent development ahead for the People's Korea, and for future anniversaries that—I trust—will be celebrated with our participation.
Once again, I sincerely thank you for your presence on this day, which is so special to us. The DPRK has turned 78, yet as the Polish thinker Tadeusz Kotarbiński said: "The past preserved in memory becomes part of the present." That is why we strive to carefully cherish the magnificent traditions of the People's Korea and draw upon the wisdom of the people who shaped it. We cherish the quiet hope that, during future jubilees—including such a momentous occasion as the 100th anniversary—our contribution to the great mission of defending the truth about the People's Korea will also be remembered; a mission we fulfill with honor and dignity for the sake of our dear Korean friends.
Thank you for listening.
A l a n B o l o n
Organisation Secretary,
of the Korean Friendship Association UK
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