At the Discussion on Economic Recession, Kim Dae-gi Emphasizes 'Eradication of Fake News'

Criticism of Vulgar Language Reports Controversy During Yoon's Overseas Tour... "Fake News Surges When Economy Worsens"

Kim Dae-gi, Chief Presidential Secretary, is attending the High-level Party-Government Council held at the Prime Minister's Official Residence in Jongno-gu, Seoul on the 25th, delivering opening remarks. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Baek Kyunghwan] Kim Dae-gi, Chief of Staff to the President, said on the 25th, "It seems that the economy is showing clear signs of entering a full-fledged recession," adding, "When the economy worsens, fake news surges." This statement came right after President Yoon Seok-yeol returned from his overseas trip, leading to interpretations that it was a criticism of media coverage regarding the president's use of profanity.

Chief of Staff Kim made these remarks during his opening speech at the 4th High-level Party-Government Council held at the Prime Minister's official residence in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul.

The council meeting was convened to discuss pressing public issues such as measures against voice phishing, the Stalking Crime Punishment Act, and the Grain Management Act. Kim also argued, "While the recent sharp interest rate hikes in the United States have had a direct impact, the previous administration's lax management of fiscal and financial policies has also caused considerable side effects."

He continued, "The response should focus on establishing a structural foundation that allows the Republic of Korea's economy to grow sustainably, rather than temporary or fragmented measures," emphasizing, "If populist policies such as indiscriminate money distribution or labor union-biased policies, which were heavily used by the previous government, are repeated, not only the economy but also the future of the youth will look bleak."

However, Chief of Staff Kim stated, "Looking at past cases, when the economy deteriorates, economic crimes increase and fake news surges. Fake news divides the people, lowers trust in the government, makes society more unstable, and makes people's livelihoods more difficult," stressing the need to eradicate them.

Although there was no direct mention of the profanity controversy that occurred during President Yoon's trip to New York, USA, the remarks are interpreted as targeting the fake news or distortions that spread due to this incident. Kim said, "I apologize to the people as the government's response seems insufficient in the face of the 'perfect storm' approaching," but also pointed out, "Currently, government affairs cannot move forward without cooperation from the National Assembly, and the political circles are more focused on political strife than on people's livelihoods."

The problem is that attacks from the opposition continue. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, said on Facebook the night before, "Ignoring injustice is injustice," and "If it is for righteousness, one must act accordingly." Although he avoided specific mention of 'injustice,' it is interpreted as targeting the 'profanity controversy' that occurred during the president's trip. In response to Lee's post, Park Chan-dae, a Supreme Council member, commented, "Everyone will be happy with Biden." When the presidential office explained that the president did not mention Biden but said "nallimyeon" (meaning "if it is removed"), this comment was interpreted as mocking the explanation.