Quoting a Chinese Classic at the Cabinet Meeting
Emphasizing the Weight of Authority for Public Officials
Urging a Sense of Responsibility in Previous Meetings
Calling for Proactive Administration, Including Relocation of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries
On the 75th Anniversary of the Korean War: "Firmly Establishing a Peace Regime on the Korean Peninsula"
On June 24, President Lee Jaemyung referenced the 'Pacho-seon' (Banana Leaf Fan) from the Chinese classic Journey to the West during a Cabinet meeting, emphasizing to public officials the importance of never forgetting the weight of their authority. This message is consistent with his previous remarks at the Emergency Economic Task Force (TF) meeting and earlier Cabinet meetings, where he highlighted the suffering caused by economic stagnation and soaring prices, and underscored the critical role of public officials.
President Lee continues to work with senior officials appointed during the previous administration of President Yoon Sukyeol. Until the personnel reshuffle is complete, he is inevitably working alongside appointees from the former government. President Lee stated, "In Journey to the West, a witch wields a small fan called Pacho-seon. When she waves it once, thunder and lightning strike; when she waves it twice, a typhoon blows and the world is turned upside down. Power is like that." He explained that the actions of senior officials, even a single small gesture, can determine matters of life and death, and sometimes the rise or fall of a nation. His message was a call for public officials to do their utmost until the very end of their tenure.
Previously, at the Emergency Economic TF meeting held on June 9, President Lee also emphasized the sense of responsibility required of public officials, stating, "One hour spent by a public official is equivalent to one hour for each of our 52 million citizens. That is how immense the responsibility is."
At his first meeting with senior secretaries and aides since taking office on June 23, President Lee stressed the importance of proactive administration, saying, "When it comes to administration and state affairs, there is no end if you choose to do it, and nothing gets done if you choose not to. That is why the right mindset is truly important."
In particular, President Lee called for accelerating the relocation of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries to Busan. At the Cabinet meeting on June 24, he instructed the ministry to devise a plan to complete the relocation to Busan by the end of this year. He also urged them to consider practical and swift solutions, such as utilizing rental spaces instead of relying on the construction of a new government building.
Meanwhile, on June 25, President Lee posted a message titled "Marking the 75th Anniversary of the Korean War" on social media, stating, "Building a nation where we never again experience war is the right way to honor the sacrifices and dedication of countless individuals." He pledged, "We will steadfastly establish a peace regime on the Korean Peninsula so that the economy remains stable and the people can live safe and secure lives."
President Lee further stated, "Today's Republic of Korea did not come about by chance. It was made possible by the sacrifices and dedication of the soldiers who defended the battlefield, the veterans, their families, and all citizens who have endured the scars of war." He pledged, "We will seek various ways to provide greater support to those who have made extraordinary sacrifices to protect the Republic of Korea."
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