President Moon Declares "KCDC Upgraded to KDCA"... Official Review of Government Organization Restructuring (Update)

Ministry of Health and Welfare Introduces 'Multiple Vice Ministers System'

President Moon Jae-in is delivering a special national address at the Blue House Chuncheon Hall on the morning of the 10th, marking the third anniversary of his inauguration. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Son Sun-hee] President Moon Jae-in said on the 10th, "We will elevate the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) to the Korea Disease Control Agency to strengthen expertise and independence." This was an official announcement of the government's intention to review organizational restructuring in the second half of his administration amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a special speech marking the 3rd anniversary of his inauguration at 11 a.m. at the Press Center, President Moon said, "We will expand professional personnel and establish a regional system to supplement the insufficient capabilities of local areas." He also stated, "Subject to the consent of the National Assembly, we intend to introduce a multiple vice-minister system in the Ministry of Health and Welfare," and added, "We will also promote the establishment of specialized infectious disease hospitals and a National Infectious Disease Research Institute."

President Moon emphasized, "We will drastically strengthen the public health care system and infectious disease response capabilities to create a safer Republic of Korea." He urged, "To prepare for the second large-scale outbreak expected by experts this fall or winter, this is an extremely urgent task," and requested, "I ask for the National Assembly's prompt cooperation."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.