Hong Nam-ki: "Many Oppose Online Betting Tickets and Ministries... Will Undergo Further Consensus Process"

Deputy Prime Minister for Economy Hong Nam-ki appeared at the National Assembly's Planning and Finance Committee's audit of the Ministry of Economy and Finance held on the 20th, responding to questions from lawmakers. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Hong Nam-ki said on the 20th regarding the implementation of online horse betting, "There are too many opposing opinions," adding, "It seems necessary to go through the process of gathering opinions from other ministries."

Deputy Prime Minister Hong appeared at the National Assembly's Planning and Finance Committee's audit held in Yeouido, Seoul, on the same day. In response to a question from Jeong Uncheon, a member of the People Power Party, about whether to discuss online horse betting sales, he explained, "Inter-ministerial consultations are underway, but for the agenda to be raised at the Economic Ministers' Meeting, opinions among ministries must first be coordinated," adding, "Opposing opinions are the majority, so it is not yet at the stage to be discussed at the ministers' meeting."

Assemblyman Jeong argued that losses have been significant due to the suspension of horse racing by the Korea Racing Authority following the spread of COVID-19, and that government resolution is necessary. Yoon Hoo-duk, chairman of the Planning and Finance Committee and member of the Democratic Party of Korea, also urged, "If this continues, the horse industry itself will collapse, and it will cost a great deal to regenerate it," requesting, "Please take a closer look." In response, Deputy Prime Minister Hong replied, "I will keep in mind the criticisms so far and show more proactiveness."

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