Prime Minister Han Duck-soo: "A Heavy Responsibility... The Goal is 'Unity and Cooperation'" (Update)

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Sejong=Reporter Son Seon-hee] Han Deok-su, the newly appointed Prime Minister, said on the 20th that he "feels a heavy sense of responsibility" regarding his approval by the National Assembly and added, "I will realize the goals of national policy based on 'integration and cooperation.'

Prime Minister Han made these remarks in front of the Korea Productivity Center in Jongno-gu, Seoul, where the office for preparing the confirmation hearing was set up, immediately after the Prime Minister nominee appointment bill passed the plenary session of the National Assembly. It has been 48 days since President Yoon Seok-yeol, as the president-elect, nominated Han as the first Prime Minister of the Yoon administration on the 3rd of last month.

Han said, "I will serve the President with utmost dedication as a responsible Prime Minister, prioritizing our national interests and the people, and devote all my efforts to building and managing the country." He added, "Going forward, I will communicate with the media, the National Assembly, opposition parties, civic groups, and the public, and work hand in hand to make a great Republic of Korea."

When asked about his determination as a 'responsible Prime Minister,' Han replied, "During the transition period, I exercised the right to recommend ministers for government departments, and I will continue to exercise the constitutional right to propose appointments in a substantial manner." He emphasized, "Cooperation and communication with the opposition parties are not optional but essential. As President Yoon told his secretariat, the Cabinet will also communicate, consult with our National Assembly and opposition parties, and strive tirelessly to prepare countermeasures."

Han has a long career in public service in the field of trade and served as ambassador to the United States during the Lee Myung-bak administration, earning him the reputation of a 'U.S. expert.' When asked about his future contributions to Korea-U.S. relations, he said, "Diplomacy and defense are tasks that the President must lead," but added, "Having extensive experience in trade, international economy, and security issues as ambassador to the U.S., I believe I can contribute to diplomacy for national interests, defense based on deterrence, and building a strong nation by working in harmony with the entire government."