Prime Minister Kim Minseok: "Anti-Foreigner Sentiment Is Self-Destructive... Firm Response Needed"

Public Safety and Security Ministers' Meeting Held on the 15th
Reviewing Safety Measures Ahead of the APEC Summit

Prime Minister Kim Minseok stated on the 15th, "At this critical time, some groups continue to hold anti-foreigner protests," adding, "These actions not only cause anxiety among foreigners but also significantly disrupt the business of domestic small and medium-sized merchants, making them acts of self-harm that are deeply concerning."

Prime Minister Kim made these remarks while presiding over the Public Safety and Security Ministers' Meeting at the Government Seoul Office on this day. The meeting was convened ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, which will be held on October 31, to receive comprehensive reports on the safety of major facilities and public security for foreigners, and to allow all relevant ministries to jointly discuss public safety and security across all sectors.

Prime Minister Kim Minseok is speaking at the Public Safety and Security Ministers' Meeting held on the 15th at the Government Seoul Office in Jongno-gu, Seoul.

At the meeting, Prime Minister Kim emphasized, "With the APEC Summit, key figures from the Asia-Pacific region and numerous tourists will visit the Republic of Korea." He went on to explain, "The APEC Summit is not merely a diplomatic event but an opportunity to restore the national prestige of Korea, and we are making thorough preparations in that regard."

Regarding recent anti-China protests and other anti-foreigner demonstrations ahead of the APEC Summit, Prime Minister Kim announced a firm response. He stressed, "Acts of discrimination or insulting expressions against foreigners damage the dignity and status of Korea in the era of global attention on K-culture. Such behavior must be eradicated."

He further explained, "Each ministry must respond strictly, according to the law and principles, to any acts that incite hatred or discrimination against foreign tourists or cause harm to the business of small and medium-sized merchants." He also stated, "We will continue to make Korea a safer country so that even more foreigners can visit after APEC."