President Lee at Senior Aides Meeting: "There Is a Reason We Gather Everyone Each Week"
"Sometimes We Underestimate the Significance of Our Work... The Lives of 52 Million People Are at Stake"
"It Is Very Important to Be Aware of Other Aides' Work a
President Lee Jaemyung emphasized to his presidential aides, "If we compare our work to a living organism, we are playing the role of the brain," adding, "You must never forget that a moment's judgment, choice, or decision can have an enormous impact on society."
During his opening remarks at the senior aides' meeting held at the Yongsan presidential office on November 13, President Lee pointed out, "Since the same tasks are repeated every day, there are times when we forget or underestimate the significance of our work."
He went on to urge his aides to broaden their perspectives by taking an interest and sharing their judgments, even in matters not directly related to them. This suggests that he believes a change is needed in the way his aides work.
President Lee explained, "For example, when it comes to labor policy, there is a reason why not only the relevant aides but everyone gathers to discuss it at the senior aides' meeting presided over by the president. Even if it is not your area of responsibility, since we are dealing with matters that affect the lives of 52 million citizens, you should at least be aware of what is happening in other aides' domains, not just your own."
President Lee further emphasized, "If you only focus on your own field, you may gain depth, but your perspective could narrow, making it difficult to consider other aspects. It is extremely important to share opinions even if something is not directly related to you."
He also advised that while working at the presidential office, aides should have pride in their work, but they must also maintain an equal sense of responsibility. President Lee stated, "Just as the fate of the Republic of Korea and the lives of its people rest in the hands of public officials, we must never forget that our choices and decisions have a tremendous impact on society."
He added, "There are times when someone's life can change, or the success or failure of a business can be determined. Sometimes, it could even be a matter of life and death. You must have a sense of responsibility equal to the pride you feel in handling such important matters."
Meanwhile, he also called on his aides to take great responsibility for raising the potential growth rate, which has been declining by 1 percentage point each time the government changes.
President Lee stressed, "The Republic of Korea is likely passing through a major historical turning point. The international community is extremely complex and challenging, and the issue of growth potential is also very serious. We are the ones who have the duty to reverse this situation."
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