Read a Separate Letter After the Official Inaugural Address
"I Will Be a Chairman Who Stands With You"
"While thinking of all of you, I wrote a short, personal letter expressing my honest feelings." On the afternoon of September 15, Lee Eogwon, Chairman of the Financial Services Commission, took out an additional sheet of paper after delivering his official inaugural address at the Government Complex Seoul. The letter was specially prepared for the employees of the Financial Services Commission, who have been feeling unsettled by the sudden organizational restructuring.
That day, Chairman Lee said, "When I was nominated as the head of this institution, I felt excitement as I thought of all of you. I must have been thrilled at the prospect of working together with you to envision the future and vision of the Korean people." He continued, "However, the reality our organization faces makes it difficult to speak only of such excitement and the future, which is truly regrettable."
Having returned to public office as the new Chairman of the Financial Services Commission after decades of public service, he said, "I fully empathize with the confusion and fear you are feeling due to the sudden news of organizational restructuring, as well as the uncertainty this brings to your personal life plans, dreams, and your families. I understand the weight of these concerns."
He went on to say, "As public officials, it is both our responsibility and duty to follow the final decisions made at the national level. Even if the structure of our organization changes significantly, the values and mission we have upheld-contributing to the national economy through financial stability and development-will never be shaken."
Chairman Lee also emphasized his commitment to listening to employees, stating, "A crucial part of my role is to fully support you so that you can faithfully carry out your responsibilities and duties as public officials. At the same time, I believe I must pay close attention to each and every feeling you have during this process."
He added, "As the captain of the large ship that is the Financial Services Commission, I have the responsibility to safely serve our customers, the people, and at the same time, I must look after all of you, my colleagues on this journey, until the very end."
He continued, "There will be many challenges ahead, but each time, I will listen to your voices first and pay close attention to both big and small difficulties. I know that this single sheet of writing cannot erase all your anxiety. However, starting today, I will be the first to reach out to you. We will talk together and solve things together." He added, "If we hold each other's hands and wisely endure this difficult period together, we will emerge stronger and renewed. I will always be a chairman who stands with you."
Shortly afterward, Chairman Lee visited the press room. When asked by reporters about the organizational restructuring, he replied, "The most important thing is that the employees are struggling, worried, and feeling confused. Now that I am the head of the organization, it is my responsibility to take care of the staff." He added, "I will listen carefully and continue to look for ways to support you with the utmost attention."
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