President Personally Orders Production of Presidential Watch
Directly Addresses and Corrects Media Reports
In past administrations, the "presidential watch" served as a kind of lubricant for state affairs. Even those who were not supporters would often become presidential supporters after receiving the gift of a watch. Simply wearing a presidential watch created the image of being someone special. In fact, the presidential watch is not something just anyone can possess. During the Moon Jae-in administration, it was widely said that even presidential secretaries rarely had the chance to see the watch. Unless it was a particularly meaningful occasion, even those close to the president found it difficult to receive one, as distribution was strictly controlled.
During the Lee Jaemyung administration, rumors spread that the presidential watch would not be produced, leading to disappointment among many. Jeon Hyunhee, a senior member of the Democratic Party, appeared on the YouTube channel "Kim Eo-jun's News Factory" and recounted an episode with President Lee. She said, "Several people asked the president, 'Is there no Lee Jaemyung watch?'" and added, "The president replied, 'Why would we need something like that?'" This story quickly evolved into the claim that President Lee had decided not to produce a presidential watch.
As the controversy grew, President Lee addressed the issue on social media to clear up any misunderstandings. He stated, "Since only part of the story regarding the presidential watch was reported in the media, there seems to have been some misunderstanding, which I would like to correct." He added, "After carefully listening to various suggestions, I determined that a gift combining both meaning and practicality would be most appropriate, and I have instructed the production of a cost-effective presidential watch."
President Lee further explained, "During a recent dinner with the Democratic Party leadership, the topic of watch gifts naturally came up, and I remarked, 'Is it really necessary?'" He continued, "Many people expressed disappointment and shared the opinion that, among presidential gifts, the watch delivers the greatest impact relative to its cost."
President Lee also said, "Since the watch represents the Republic of Korea, I will make sure it is prepared with the utmost care and attention it deserves. I will ensure it becomes a gift everyone can be proud of. You can look forward to it."
Previously, on June 10, Kang Yoo-jung, spokesperson for the presidential office, also issued a statement titled "Correction," saying, "President Lee has instructed us to identify popular gift items, including the watch, and it will be produced as an official presidential gift."
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