Lee Jae Myung
@Jaemyung_Lee · Asia
Lee Jae Myung is followed by The State of Israel for government and public service coverage connected to South Korea in the Asia chapter.
I have been moved by the sentence, “In a society where an elderly person steals bread, everyone is guilty.” With that spirit, “그냥드림,” which we started, has come to fruition. “그냥드림,” which began in Gyeonggi Province, is now expanding nationwide.
Translated from Korean<The ‘Peter Pan’ father who became a star, and the wish left by the late Jeon Gyeong-cheol> The tears of a father who worried only about his son’s future until the final moment of his life moved all of our hearts. ‘How will my son live after I am gone? Who will stay by his side?’ The story of the Peter Pan father who worried about his son’s tomorrow until the very end is no different from the feelings of many parents who have children with disabilities. Even when their parents are no longer by their side, children should not be left alone and should be able to enjoy an ordinary daily life. Today, the government announced a pan-governmental plan for caring for people with developmental disabilities. We will expand 24-hour integrated care for people with the most severe developmental disabilities and participation in daytime activities for people with developmental disabilities, and continue to provide more comprehensive support, including the public guardianship system. Step by step, but without stopping. We will not forget the tomorrow of the son whom the late Peter Pan father, Jeon Gyeong-cheol, worried about until the end. May the late Jeon Gyeong-cheol rest in peace.
Translated from KoreanI returned to Seoul after completing my trip to France. I was very happy to meet President Macron(@EmmanuelMacron) and his wife again, this time in Nice and Paris, after we had met them in Seoul five months ago. I would like to once again express my sincere gratitude to them for their warm welcome, as well as for the valuable decorations they awarded to my wife and me. I particularly appreciated being able to share a one-on-one lunch with President Macron, which allowed us to exchange views freely and with complete sincerity. It was also an opportunity to have in-depth discussions on the various issues facing the international community, as well as on cooperation between our two countries. I hope that this meeting will contribute to deepening the friendship between Korea and France even further. I have returned to Seoul after completing my schedule in France. I was truly delighted to meet President Macron and his wife again, this time in Nice and Paris, after meeting them in Seoul five months ago. I once again sincerely thank them for their warm welcome and for awarding valuable decorations to my wife and me. In particular, I was pleased to be able to have a comfortable and candid conversation with President Macron over a private lunch. It was meaningful that we were also able to exchange views in depth on various issues facing the international community and on cooperation between the two countries. I hope that the friendship between Korea and France will deepen further through this meeting.
Translated from French마티아스 코먼 OECD 사무총장님(@MathiasCormann)을 만났습니다. 올해는 우리가 OECD에 가입한 지 30년이 되는 해입니다. 개발도상국에서 모범선진국으로, 원조를 받던 나라에서 원조를 주는 나라가 되었고, 이제는 국제규범을 만드는 일에도 목소리를 보태고 있습니다. 지금 세계 경제는 인구구조 변화와 저성장, 인공지능 기술혁신, 공급망 재편 등 구조적 전환 앞에 서 있습니다. 어느 한 나라의 힘만으로는 답을 찾기 어려운 과제들입니다. 또한, 양극화가 깊어질수록 성장의 지속가능성도 흔들리는 만큼 전 세계가 함께 클 수 있는 포용적 성장에 대해서도 진지하게 고민해야 할 때입니다. 대한민국도 그동안 쌓은 경험과 역량으로 OECD와 함께 인공지능 시대의 성장 동력 확보를 위한 해법을 찾고 동반성장의 길을 만들어가겠습니다. I was pleased to meet with Secretary-General Mathias Cormann (@MathiasCormann) of the OECD. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Republic of Korea's accession to the OECD. We have risen from a developing nation to an advanced economy, and from a recipient of development assistance to a donor. Today we also play a part in shaping international norms. The global economy stands before a structural transition — demographic change and slowing growth, AI innovation, and the realignment of supply chains. These are challenges no single nation can meet alone. At the same time, as polarization deepens, the sustainability of growth is also called into question. This is a moment for earnest reflection on inclusive growth, so that the world may prosper together. Drawing on the experience and capabilities we have built over these 30 years, the Republic of Korea will work alongside the OECD to seek the growth engines of the AI era and to open a path toward shared prosperity.
<I greeted the compatriots who are the key actors linking the Republic of Korea and France> I spent lunch on the last day of my visit to France with our compatriots. I saw in full the history held by the Korean community in France, from people who have spent their whole lives building their lives here, to young people who have just arrived, and adopted compatriots who left Korea in childhood and made their homes here. The time you have built up on unfamiliar soil for more than a century has brought the Republic of Korea and France this close together. Now it is the Republic of Korea's turn to respond to that dedication. We will embrace more broadly, including those whom diaspora policy has not reached until now. France is home to the largest number of adopted Korean compatriots in Europe. We will provide more systematic support for verifying adoption records, finding biological families, visits to the homeland, and other matters. Resolving the concerns raised at compatriot meetings in each country is also work for our citizens who will visit those countries. It is now possible to hear guidance in Korean at the Roman Forum in Italy, which many of our citizens visit. It is the first language from an Asian country. In this way, we will resolve, one by one and starting with the small things, the inconveniences experienced by our citizens and compatriots. I will cherish every single word I heard in France today. To the compatriots who welcomed me so warmly, thank you.
Translated from Korean (South Korea)<I hope that cooperation between the two countries will deepen with the interest of the French Parliament> I met with Ms. Yaël Braun-Pivet, President of the French National Assembly (@YaelBRAUNPIVET). France, which has spread the values of liberty, equality and popular sovereignty throughout the world, and the Republic of Korea, which has advanced its democracy by placing the people at its center, stand together on the firm foundation of democracy. The essence of democracy is that the will of the people is clearly reflected in national policy. The legislature plays a very important role in this process. I hope that this meeting will further invigorate exchange and communication between the parliaments of our two countries and expand cooperation in a wide range of areas, including trade and investment, advanced technology, culture and people-to-people exchanges. Building on close cooperation not only between our governments but also between our parliaments, we will continue to further develop the global strategic partnership between Korea and France. The more mutual trust grows, the stronger the friendship between the Republic of Korea and France will become.
Translated from Korean< We found a path for Korean and French companies to move forward together> We have concluded the Korea-France Business Roundtable. Our country, with world-class advanced manufacturing capabilities, and France, which possesses unparalleled fundamental and foundational technologies, are the best partners for shared growth. If the two countries cooperate, they will be able to build competitiveness in advanced-technology fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology, mobility, and biotechnology that no one else will find easy to match. The two countries will also connect their supply chains more closely in key areas such as hydrogen and electricity, creating a robust industrial ecosystem. In addition, by combining the power of the stories that the Republic of Korea has cultivated with the depth of the arts that France has nurtured, we will open a new chapter in cultural cooperation. I will continue to support this so that the conversations held today do not remain confined to the meeting room but extend into the lives of our people.
Translated from Korean< I will remember the noble sacrifice of the nameless heroes in the name of freedom and peace> France is a country that, as a member of the UN forces during the Korean War, joined the fighting and helped defend the freedom of the Republic of Korea. I visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and paid tribute to the nameless heroes who safeguarded peace across borders. The noble sacrifice of countless heroes has become the firm foundation of the freedom and peace we enjoy today. Reflecting anew on the meaning of the peace built upon it, I will strive to pass the values of freedom and solidarity on to the next generation.
Translated from KoreanIn Nice, France, a city that preserves the history of cinema, I discussed the potential of K-content and the future of the audiovisual content industry with representatives of member companies of the Motion Picture Association (MPA), including Netflix, Disney, and Sony. The strength of K-content lies in the rich stories accumulated over thousands of years of history, deep empathy, and creators’ passion and meticulous production capabilities. Even without a large production budget, our stories can move people’s hearts around the world. If global investment and distribution capabilities are added to Korea’s creative stories and outstanding production capabilities, more good works can shine in the global market. I look forward to creating a virtuous cycle in which creation and investment, and production and distribution, grow together by sharing each other’s strengths. I hope today’s meeting will become a starting point that opens the way to a greater leap forward for K-content and a new future for the global film and audiovisual content industry.
Translated from KoreanAfter delivering the opening speech at the Lumière Summit, I sat down face-to-face with our filmmakers, including directors Lee Chang-dong and Jeong Juri. The secret behind Korean films winning the hearts of people around the world is the fierce imagination and passion of their creators. I expressed my gratitude to the filmmakers who have demonstrated the strength of our films on the world stage, and I also listened to the concerns facing the film industry today. I will carefully take the valuable opinions you shared today and reflect them in our policies. I will give deep consideration to ways to further broaden the production and investment base for our films, including independent and art films, so that Korean films can grow even further beyond their achievements today. So that our filmmakers can work on a broader stage, we will expand avenues for cooperation, including international co-productions, and provide strong support for their advance overseas. The government will stand firmly alongside our films on their journey to make people around the world laugh and cry.
Translated from KoreanWe participated with France as a co-chairing country in the Lumière Summit, which explores together the future of the global film and video industry. More than 200 leaders of the film and video industry from over 50 countries around the world gathered in one place. I hope that this gathering today will become a “light (Lumière)” that illuminates a new future for the film and video industry by sharing one another’s experiences and wisdom across borders.
Translated from KoreanSearch and rescue efforts are still continuing for the nine Korean nationals who went missing in the Nepal flood disaster. Thinking of the families who have been anxiously waiting for news for more than ten days since the disaster occurred, I feel truly saddened and burdened. Our embassy and rapid response team are working closely with the Nepalese authorities and will make every effort to find the nine people. The Minister of Foreign Affairs has also visited Nepal first-hand to inspect the situation on the ground. I, too, will continue receiving updates and take the necessary measures while staying in France. Although this is a heavy responsibility, I will also carry out my diplomatic duties for the national interest and future generations without wavering. This state visit to France was at the invitation of President Macron, who visited Korea last April on the occasion of the 140th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Korea and France. Based on the trust and friendship the two countries have built over the past 140 years, I will make this a starting point for opening the next 140 years. As co-host country of the Lumière Summit with France, I will explore the future of the film and video industries and further expand cultural and content cooperation between the two countries. In France, the birthplace of cinema, we will write a new drama for K-culture and the global film and video industries together. @EmmanuelMacron, Mr. President, I will see you in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
Translated from KoreanThis is a navigation video filmed today at 10:00 Korea time aboard the Panstar Akro, South Korea’s first pioneering vessel on the Arctic route, as it passes through an area of the Arctic Ocean 81 km southwest of Russia’s Bolshevik Island. The video was filmed around 10 a.m. today. Leaving the Arctic waters under Russian jurisdiction is scheduled for September 10, and entering the United Kingdom’s Felixstowe, the first port of call, is scheduled for September 12. Together with the people, we wish the Panstar Akro, the first pioneering vessel on the Arctic route that will open Busan, the southern maritime capital, a safe voyage and safe return.
Translated from Korean< I will expand opportunities to rise again> The credit scores of 2.92 million people have risen. 116,000 people are now able to use bank loans, and 38,000 are newly able to use credit cards. These are the changes created by the “credit recovery support for diligent payers” program, established so that people who have quietly paid down their debts despite difficult circumstances can work again, start businesses, and carry on with their daily lives. In life, unexpected difficulties such as illness or accidents can make it impossible to repay a debt on time. But one missed payment should not hold someone back for the rest of their life. We will continue to broaden the path to a fresh start so that people do not collapse in the face of a single hardship and can stand up again. We will build a society where anyone who works hard and makes an honest effort can find hope again. So that immediate difficulties do not become the edge of a cliff in life, we will continue to expand a sturdy “ladder of opportunity” that enables people to rise again.
Translated from Korean (South Korea)< Report from Lee Jong-wook, Commissioner of the Korea Customs Service> I am the Commissioner of the Korea Customs Service. Today, at 1 p.m. on September 5, this year’s cumulative exports reached an all-time high after surpassing last year’s annual total 117 days early. As of 1 p.m. on September 5, this year’s cumulative export value stood at $709.4 billion, exceeding last year’s annual export value of $709.3 billion, which was the largest ever. We surpassed last year’s total annual performance in just 248 days, 117 days earlier than last year. Despite an uncertain trade environment, including stronger protectionism, the restructuring of global supply chains, and the situation in the Middle East, our exports continue their remarkable growth. If the current robust export trend continues, annual exports of $1 trillion are expected around early December. So far, only three countries have exported more than $1 trillion annually: the United States, China, and Germany. It is also highly significant that major export items are growing together, led by semiconductors. Semiconductor exports increased 169.6% from January to August this year compared with the same period last year, while other major items also rose in tandem, including computer peripherals (+262.2%), petroleum products (+40.7%), wireless communication devices (+28.1%), and ships (+12.4%).
Translated from Korean (South Korea)"When called upon, he is the nation’s son; when injured, he is your son; when he dies, ‘Who are you?’" We must make sure such words are never heard again, shouldn’t we? The accident insurance for military personnel that was implemented in Seongnam City and Gyeonggi Province will now be implemented nationwide.
Translated from Korean (South Korea)< Director Lee Chang-dong's cinematic world shone> I sincerely congratulate director Lee Chang-dong, together with the people, on receiving the ‘Auteur Award’ at the 49th Mill Valley Film Festival. I, too, was deeply impressed by Director Lee Chang-dong's body of work while watching < Peppermint Candy>. From < Oasis>, < Secret Sunshine>, < Poetry>, and < Burning>, the director's profound gaze on humanity and life has moved the hearts of many viewers. It is all the more welcome that the fruits of having walked his own path for so long have led to this Auteur Award. I have also heard that his new film < Possible Love> has been invited to the competition section of the 83rd Venice International Film Festival. Together with the people, we will cheer him on, hoping for good news in Venice after Mill Valley. Once again, my heartfelt congratulations.
Translated from Korean<With Civil Society Toward a Better South Korea> Today, I met with civil society activists and listened to voices from the field. Civil society has always played an important role in South Korea's democratization process. The role of civil society is also important for comprehensive social reform. "I think the world you want to create and the world I want to create are not very different." We share the same intention of creating a fairer South Korea where everyone is respected. We went well beyond the scheduled time and talked for nearly three and a half hours. As I listened to a range of views, from the difficulties experienced on the ground to proposals for comprehensive social reform, I lost track of time. I will make sure to reflect what you shared today in policy. We will work through things one by one together with civil society.
Translated from KoreanFirst of all, thank you for your opinion. Whether what is happening at construction sites is an exercise of rights within the legitimate scope of the three labor rights, or an illegal and unfair act, will have to be determined based on the specific case. For now, I will ask the Minister of Employment and Labor to examine the possibility of illegal acts at construction sites. If there are specific cases, I would appreciate it if you would send the materials to the Minister of Employment and Labor’s office. Although both the Minister of Employment and Labor and I come from working-class backgrounds, we do not take the workers’ side alone in a one-sided manner. Just as we appoint people from business backgrounds in industrial fields, I want to say that we are doing our best to find a fair and reasonable balance when coordinating interests between labor and management.
Translated from KoreanToday, I met with Kim Dong-myung, chairman of the Federation of Korean Trade Unions, and Yang Kyung-soo, chairman of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, and we talked about current labor issues and social dialogue. As it happened to be Chairman Kim Dong-myung’s birthday today, I offered him a small cake made with care as a surprise celebration. Thanks to the chairman’s broad smile at the unexpected party, the door to dialogue opened in an even warmer atmosphere. Congratulations once again. There is truly much we must resolve together, from successfully advancing the megaproject to extending the retirement age, addressing changes in labor resulting from the AI transition, and reducing polarization. I will listen fully to the voice of labor and work to resolve the difficulties and concerns in the field one by one. In particular, I find it very meaningful that discussions have begun within the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions about joining social dialogue again. I hope that social dialogue involving the two major trade unions will continue actively.
Translated from Korean (South Korea)The privatization of major infrastructure ultimately increases the burden on the people. As promised, I am taking institutional and policy measures to prevent the privatization of railways, electricity, water, airports, ports, and the like.
Translated from Korean< After 30 years, we are paying off the last debt from the foreign-exchange crisis> The repayment of the public funds arranged to prevent a sovereign default during the 1997 IMF foreign-exchange crisis will be completed through next year's budget. About 30 years ago, just as we overcame the country's most difficult moment through the strength of the people, this has been brought to completion thanks to all of you who worked steadfastly for 30 years. We will not forget that time. Everyone, you have truly worked very hard. About
Translated from Korean< After 30 years, we repay the last debt of the foreign-exchange crisis> Repayment of the public funds arranged to prevent a national default during the 1997 IMF foreign-exchange crisis will be completed through next year’s budget. Just as we overcame the most difficult moment for our country 30 years ago through the strength of the people, we have been able to bring this to a close thanks to all of you who have worked steadfastly for 30 years. We will not forget that time. Citizens, you have truly worked hard.
Translated from Korean<Compared with when I took office last year, it is a complete transformation. It is the result of businesspeople, workers, and public officials on the front lines sprinting at full speed with one mind and one purpose. However, there is still a long way to go. Returning to a potential growth rate of 3% and national income of $50,000 will require running much farther.>
Translated from KoreanThere has been criticism along the lines of: Why is this inconsistent? This is a retreat from reform. The government restored the upper limit on the comprehensive real estate holding tax reduction for a single mid- to low-priced home not used as a residence to 1.2 billion won, reflecting opinions from politicians and the public that lowering it to 900 million won was excessive, and decided to keep the annual tax-increase limit at 150% as before after trying to raise it to 200%. But this criticism overlooks the changes to the comprehensive real estate holding tax on a high-priced single home not used as a residence, the changes for multiple-home owners or ultra-high-priced homes, and especially the reduction of capital-gains-tax relief for a single home not used as a residence, ultra-high-priced homes, and multiple homes. Nor is a 200% limit on tax increases just, while 150% is unjust. It is simply a matter of policy choice, where likes and dislikes intersect. Please examine the policy as a whole, not just aggressive hard-line arguments, and also look into why housing prices are currently plunging in places such as Gangnam. If 1.2 billion won and 150% had been kept unchanged from the beginning, would there have been no criticism? Now that the main point of attack has disappeared, will they find something else to latch onto? It is necessary to consider whether it is reasonable to attack a very small part while ignoring more important matters and failing to see the whole picture. Is changing one’s policy position unjust, while holding firm is unconditionally right? They say this is the age of post-truth, but it would be good to restore real politics based on truth, centered on the people and the nation, competing over what best serves the national interest. This is a time when proper politics and competition to do a good job are urgently needed, not agitation and defamation based on falsehoods or unconditional criticism.
Translated from Korean (South Korea)
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