[Exclusive] "Overcoming Crisis" Han Deok-su Acting President's First Address to the Nation

Han "Korea Overcame the Foreign Exchange Crisis and COVID-19"
Emphasizes 'Government Stabilization'... Urges Responsibility in Public Service

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 foreign exchange 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 Duck-soo made these remarks in a public address at the Government Complex Seoul. 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."

The following is the full text of Acting President Han Duck-soo’s address.

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

Respected citizens, today the National Assembly passed a presidential impeachment motion. 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. I sincerely apologize to all citizens.

Citizens, what is most important right now is that there must be no gap whatsoever in state affairs. The domestic and international conditions that South Korea faces are very difficult. Uncertainties in the economy and trade environment are increasing. The hardships of ordinary people due to sluggish domestic demand are significant. Concerns about the expansion of downside risks to the economy are growing. Public anxiety and concerns due to the political situation are also very high.

The government pledges to do its best to overcome these difficulties and minimize the impact on the daily lives of the people. We will establish a firm security posture and manage external trust steadily. The entire cabinet will do its utmost to maintain trust with the United States, the U.S.-Japan-ROK alliance, and our other allies.

We will strengthen the emergency economic response system to ensure the smooth operation of financial and foreign exchange markets. We will establish public order, prepare tailored support measures for vulnerable groups, and thoroughly prepare for various disasters. The government will first lower its stance, communicate closely with the National Assembly, and gain cooperation to maintain international trust and ensure that the people can feel secure.

I earnestly ask all public officials as well. At this moment, we face the urgent task of normal and stable governance. It is a critical duty that you and I must carry out together to help the country overcome this crisis. Given the gravity of the situation, I trust that everyone will fulfill their responsibilities in their respective positions. Please carry out your roles without any negligence so that the government can operate without wavering.

Citizens, South Korea has faced many crises such as the 1997 foreign exchange crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, but each time, we have risen stronger. Our people have overcome difficulties through united strength and wisdom. Thanks to the dedication of many citizens, democracy is firmly functioning according to the Constitution, and the fundamentals of the economy remain solid. I believe that we can overcome the current situation through the mature democratic consciousness of the people, who are the owners of the country, and the government’s responsible response.

To ensure the nation’s security and the stability of citizens’ daily lives, we will thoroughly adhere to the Constitution and laws and make every effort for stable governance. I believe this is my final and most important duty in my long public service career. I will do my utmost. Thank you.

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