New Vice Minister Kim Minjae: "Residents' Will Must Be Reflected in Policy"

Kim Kwangyong Also Takes Office as Head of the National Disaster and Safety Control Center

Kim Minjae, the newly appointed Vice Minister of the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, emphasized the importance of "the voices of residents" in his inaugural address.

At his inauguration ceremony held at 10 a.m. on June 23, 2025, in the main auditorium of the Civil Service Building at the Government Complex Sejong, Vice Minister Kim stated, "We must be with the residents on the ground," and added, "We need to communicate on site so that the will of the residents can be reflected in policy."

Yonhap News

He referred to his experiences visiting the field during his time as Assistant Vice Minister and said, "There are numerous tasks we must accomplish?such as decentralization, balanced regional development, stabilization of people's livelihoods, and revitalization of the local economy. Effective solutions to these challenges can only be found when we work together with the residents."

Next, Vice Minister Kim stressed the need to maintain a "practical" and "action-oriented" approach, saying, "Rather than sticking to existing practices, customs, or administrative actions that are just for show, we must identify what is truly necessary and important for the people." As examples, he mentioned the reform of public and civil services, government innovation, and organizational redesign.

Kim then delivered a message centered on the keywords of innovation, boldness, and happiness. He said, "The people want a completely new government, and now we must respond to that aspiration," adding, "The sweat we shed will become happiness for all, and the path the Ministry of the Interior and Safety takes will become a global standard."

Kim Kwangyong, the newly appointed head of the National Disaster and Safety Control Center, also took office on the same day. Director Kim stated, "The President emphasizes 'safety' at every opportunity, and I will dedicate myself to considering how we can create a safer country."

He continued, "In my office, there is a phrase that reads 'Jipsagwangik,' meaning 'gathering intentions to benefit all widely.' I will listen to your diverse opinions and work together by uniting our intentions."