(LEAD) Lee vows all-out efforts to prevent Mideast war from escalating into bigger crisis for S. Korea

▲ President Lee Jae Myung delivers a speech marking Easter celebrations at Yoido Full Gospel Church in Yeouido, western Seoul, on April 5, 2026. (Yonhap)

(LEAD) Lee-Easter

(LEAD) Lee vows all-out efforts to prevent Mideast war from escalating into bigger crisis for S. Korea

(ATTN: UPDATES with Lee's remarks throughout; CHANGES photo)

SEOUL, April 5 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung vowed Sunday he will make sure the impact from the Middle East conflict does not escalate into a bigger crisis for South Korea.

Lee made the pledge in his speech during a joint Easter service, saying he will do everything in his power to overcome the crisis sparked by U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran.

"The war in the Middle East is rattling the global economy and our economy that had been on the path to recovery. Those who already face difficulties are going through even tougher times," Lee said during the service at Yoido Full Gospel Church.

"We will respond with an exceptional resolve, mobilizing all available policy tools to ensure that this crisis does not escalate into a bigger one and that those who are already struggling are not driven into deeper hardship," he said.

Marking Easter, Lee called for reflecting its meaning in light of peace and hope, saying the day is a reminder that people can rise again even in despair and of the shared commitment to solidarity.

"I believe that practicing peace over conflict and love over hatred is the true way to serve the will of Jesus Christ," he said. "To overcome the crisis we face, it is crucial to unite the hearts of our people."

"Especially in difficult times, the spirit of solidarity and cooperation is the source of strength that enables a society to overcome crises," Lee said.

Lee asked the Christian community to continue to stand together in prayer and take the lead in bringing the people together.

"When we remember the message of Easter -- love and hope -- and move forward as one, I am confident that South Korea will wisely overcome this crisis and turn it into an opportunity for a new leap forward," he said.

Lee posted a similar message on his social media account earlier, hoping that peace rather than confrontation will be realized, as he made a reference to the miracle of the Resurrection.

He also cited the Bible verse, "Peace be with you," spoken by Jesus to his disciples after his resurrection.

"These words offer unwavering comfort and courage to us who strive to live our respective lives amid the anxiety caused by the Middle East war," he said. "The Republic of Korea will overcome this crisis wisely by coming together as one."

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