Shin Hyunsong: "I Believe This Is My Last Opportunity to Dedicate Myself to the Korean Economy"

Shin Hyun-song, candidate for Governor of the Bank of Korea, stated on the 15th, "I believe this is my last opportunity to dedicate myself to the Korean economy as the Governor of the Bank of Korea," and added, "I will work wholeheartedly for the Korean people."

Shin Hyun-song, nominee for Governor of the Bank of Korea, is attending the confirmation hearing held by the National Assembly's Planning and Finance Committee on the 15th, responding to questions from members of the assembly. 2026.4.15 Photo by Kim Hyunmin

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Candidate Shin made these remarks in response to a question from Lee Soyoung, a lawmaker from the Democratic Party of Korea, who asked if he had anything to say about patriotism during the confirmation hearing held by the National Assembly's Planning and Finance Committee that afternoon.

Previously, there was controversy over whether Shin was suitable for the position of central bank governor, as about half of his assets are held in foreign currency assets despite the need to address exchange rate stability. There were also concerns that his 44 years of residence abroad might limit his understanding of domestic financial and price conditions and question his commitment to serving the Korean economy.

In response, Shin explained, "When I returned to Korea in 1978, it was to fulfill my military service. At the time, I could have postponed enlistment and even been exempted, but I returned and completed my service out of a sense of duty to the nation," adding, "I have no shame whatsoever about that part."

He reiterated, "Once again, I am determined. I returned to Korea because I believe serving as Governor of the Bank of Korea is my last opportunity to dedicate myself to the Korean economy," and emphasized, "I will work diligently for the Korean people."

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