When aides asked, "Who excelled in the work reports?"
Lee names Food Policy Bureau Director and Construction Education and Technology Institute
On December 15, President Lee Jaemyung cited Byun Sangmoon, Director General of the Food Policy Bureau at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and the Construction Education and Technology Institute as exemplary cases in work reports.
Kang Yujeong, spokesperson for the presidential office, announced at the Yongsan presidential office that day, "When aides asked which places were best prepared regarding the work reports, President Lee named these two."
Director Byun earned the nickname "Soybean GPT" for his seamless answers during the ministry's work report, particularly when President Lee asked, "What proportion of domestically imported soybeans are genetically modified organisms (GMO)?"
Spokesperson Kang praised, "When asked about the genetically modified status of soybeans and corn, which are of great public interest, and the proportion of imported agricultural products, he provided clear answers that dispelled vague concerns about food safety. His expertise in responding with precise figures, like artificial intelligence (AI), increased public trust and demonstrated a strong sense of responsibility in his official duties."
Regarding the Construction Education and Technology Institute, Kang explained, "The institute, responsible for training construction engineers and skilled workers, was praised for its internal strength and capabilities by independently raising its annual operating expenses of 24 billion won for educational purposes."
The presidential office plans to continue highlighting exemplary cases in the remaining work reports scheduled from December 16. Kang emphasized, "For the first time, the entire work report process will be broadcast live to address public curiosity and enhance transparency in state affairs. We aim to introduce well-prepared and competent civil servants to the public and communicate the government's philosophy in terms that resonate with citizens."
However, in response to public opinion that President Lee strongly criticizes agency heads affiliated with certain political parties during work reports, Kang rebutted, "The timing of their appointment is a very secondary matter." Kang added, "In the early days of this administration, when the cabinet was mostly composed of members from the previous government, some individuals answered exceptionally well and were retained in the current cabinet. The key issue is how strong they are in practical work."
On December 12, Lee Hakjae, President of Incheon International Airport Corporation, was admonished by President Lee during the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's work report for "only reading what was prepared." At that time, President Lee asked whether a $100 bill hidden in a bookmark could be detected during a security screening. When President Lee did not receive an adequate answer from President Lee Hakjae, he became enraged and issued a strong criticism.
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