The Blue House stated it will clarify the facts surrounding the suspected mine explosion in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) along the western front before taking necessary actions.
Seong Gi-hong, the Blue House's Chief of Public Communication, appeared on the YouTube channel 'Lee Dong-hyung TV' on September 30, asserting that the Blue House is not being passive regarding the incident. He emphasized that after confirming the facts, "we will clearly take appropriate measures."
Seong noted that the military is currently investigating the site and has indicated it will take appropriate corresponding actions. He added that he understands the military is reviewing various response options regarding this matter. President Lee Jae-myung also expressed during a Cabinet meeting on September 29 that thorough fact-finding and necessary actions would follow the investigation.
Regarding the ongoing verification of Kim Ji-yong, the nominee for Director of the Major Crimes Investigation Agency, Seong stated, "There are many distortions in the evaluation of the nominee." He addressed claims labeling Kim as pro-Yoon Seok-yeol and pro-Han Dong-hoon, asserting that the findings from the verification process differ significantly from these assessments.
He cited Kim's strong advocacy for the reinvestigation of a case involving former President Yoon Seok-yeol's mother-in-law during the period when Yoon was considered a leading candidate for the presidency as evidence of Kim's qualifications. However, regarding the timing of sending the personnel confirmation request to the National Assembly, he remarked, "It seems we should wait for the president's decision on personnel matters."
On the recent resignation of Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik and the vacancy for the head of the Policy Office, Seong described it as a matter for the president's judgment and decision, indicating that the president is currently deliberating. He anticipated that a statement regarding personnel matters would be forthcoming soon after the president reaches a conclusion.
Concerning the conflict between South Korea and Ukraine over the repatriation of North Korean prisoners, Seong emphasized that the government maintains a consistent principle of handling prisoner and defector repatriation issues through "quiet diplomacy."
In response to criticisms that President Lee's approach to Ukraine is excessive, Seong explained that the fundamental trust in diplomacy has been compromised, necessitating "appropriate explanations and apologies to restore trust."
Regarding the government's agricultural land investigation, Seong clarified that the aim is to identify speculative holdings where landowners are not actively farming but are waiting for land prices to rise. He acknowledged that the purpose of the investigation has not been adequately communicated to some landowners, leading to feelings of anxiety and misunderstanding. He assured that efforts would be made to reduce discomfort and misunderstandings on-site and to ensure the investigation aligns with its original intent.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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