강기정, Leaving 청 Political Secretary, "I Will Work for a Democratic Government to Continue Our Administration"

"All the Time Together Over 20 Months Was an Honor"... Kim Jowon, Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs, Does Not Reveal Separate Farewell Statement

[Asia Economy reporters Ryu Jeong-min and Son Seon-hee] Kang Ki-jung, Senior Secretary for Political Affairs at the Blue House, visited the press center on the 10th after the announcement of the new senior secretaries and delivered a farewell message, expressing his commitment to work for the democratic government that will succeed the Moon Jae-in administration.

Senior Secretary Kang said, "This is the last time. This is Kang Ki-jung, Senior Secretary for Political Affairs. Every moment spent together over the past 20 months has been an honor. When I was appointed as Senior Secretary for Political Affairs, I once said here that I would work to reflect public opinion in policy."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Senior Secretary Kang added, "The party, government, and Blue House united to respond to COVID-19, decided on disaster relief funds, worked on GSOMIA, the Korean New Deal, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials, and the Prosecutor Reform Act. I recall all those hectic processes and the national balanced development I felt while accompanying President Moon Jae-in on economic tours."

In particular, Senior Secretary Kang said, "Starting each day by sharing a cup of tea with President Moon and exchanging political philosophy and his national vision was truly precious time to discuss the direction South Korea should take. I will not forget the pride and responsibility of being the longest-serving Senior Secretary for Political Affairs since the Roh Moo-hyun administration, and wherever I am, I will work for the success of the Moon Jae-in government and the democratic government that will follow."

Kim Geo-seong, Senior Secretary for Civil Society, also visited the press center that day to deliver his farewell remarks. Kim said, "It was a great honor and joy to serve as Senior Secretary for Civil Society under President Moon. During the COVID-19 situation, there were shortcomings in communication with religious groups, which caused hurt and regret among the people. I think a more proactive role was needed."

Kim added, "Above all, I was happy to be able to award the National Moran Medal to 12 people, including 11 posthumous honors, on the 33rd anniversary of the June 10 Democratic Uprising. I believe this is the rightful recognition and honor from the people and the nation for all those who have dedicated, sacrificed, and suffered for democratization."

Meanwhile, Kim Jo-won, Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs, unlike the other two outgoing senior secretaries, did not visit the press center and did not release a separate message.