In her New Year's speech, South Korean president Park Geun Hye addressed the nation with some words of wisdom on December 31. The president asserted, "Through tight national defenses we must respond determinedly to North Korea's provocations but keep communication channels open in order to head toward a united Korea." 

Park further claimed, "A solidified national security is the most basic foundation to the country's development. The reforms of public policy, employment, financial markets, and education will be completed no matter what the costs so that a strong pillar may be built for the next thirty years of growth."

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The president also added, "In the New Year, our nation will take a powerful leap, and we will try our hardest so that that the citizens may bear the fruits of our efforts. In greeting of the year of the monkey that symbolizes creation and wisdom, I hope that everyone combine their creative passions and wisdom for a year that is full of energy and hope."