Handuksoo Acting President's National Address: "Lower Our Posture and Communicate with the National Assembly"

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Acting President Han Duck-soo lowered his stance in his first public address and stated that he would communicate with the National Assembly and seek cooperation. Referring to the 1997 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, he emphasized that South Korea, which has risen stronger in times of crisis, will do its utmost to restore stability.

On the 14th, Acting President Han made these remarks in a public address at the Government Seoul Office. He said, "As the Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea, I deeply feel the heavy responsibility for the current situation our people are facing and the entire process that led to it," and added, "I sincerely apologize to the people."

Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is delivering a national address at the Government Seoul Office in Jongno-gu, Seoul on the 14th. Photo by Yonhap News

Acting President Han said, "Above all, the most important thing is that there must be no gap in state affairs," and added, "The government will first lower its stance, communicate closely with the National Assembly, and seek cooperation to maintain the trust of the international community." He continued, "Uncertainties in the economic and trade environment are increasing, and public anxiety and concerns due to the political situation are very high," emphasizing again, "The government will do its best to overcome these difficulties and minimize the impact on the daily lives of the people."

He also urged the public service community to take responsibility for managing state affairs. He said, "At this moment, we face the urgent task of normal and stable state administration," and added, "It is a significant duty that you and I must carry out together to help the country overcome the crisis." He continued, "Given the serious situation, I trust that everyone will fulfill their responsibilities in their respective positions," and said, "I hope you will perform your roles without any negligence to ensure unwavering government operation."

Before announcing the address, Acting President Han convened an emergency Cabinet meeting to review current issues in areas such as the economy, security, and society, and discussed the direction of future state administration. Accordingly, the Cabinet is expected to prepare responses to pressing issues through meetings of senior officials in each ministry.

It was also reported that Acting President Han plans to urgently convene the National Security Council (NSC) on the same day. The council is expected to examine security concerns, including North Korea’s movements. Immediately after the passage of the impeachment motion against President Yoon, he instructed the acting Minister of National Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to strengthen the military’s alert posture.

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