Chief of Staff Kang Hoon Sik Departs for U.S.: "If I Can Persuade Even One More Person, I Must Go"

President Jae Myung Lee, who is departing for a tour of Japan and the United States, is greeting Chief Secretary Hoon Sik Kang, who came to see him off at Seongnam Seoul Airport on the 23rd. Photo by Yonhap News

Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoon Sik departed for the United States on the 24th, stating, "If there is a chance to meet even one more person or persuade with even one more word, I believe it is only natural to go."

Speaking with reporters at Incheon International Airport that day, Chief Kang said, "The public and private sectors are working together and making every effort to ensure the success of the Korea-U.S. summit," and reiterated this commitment. He also emphasized, "The success of this Korea-U.S. summit is extremely important." As for the specific reason for his trip, he explained, "There will be an opportunity to explain after I return."

Previously, on the 22nd, National Security Office Director Wi Sung Rak stated during a press briefing at the Yongsan Presidential Office that "Chief Kang has a separate schedule for consultations in the United States." It is unusual for the Chief of Staff of the Presidential Office to travel abroad together with both the Policy Chief and the National Security Director.