President Lee Advocates for Open Criticism and Advice in Government Advisory Meetings

President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the importance of open criticism and advice during a meeting with the presidential advisory council on May 21. He stated, "I believe that while you should feel free to criticize and advise, it is essential to understand that the principles of an organized government must also function."

The meeting, held at the Blue House, focused on the slogan "Envisioning the Future of Korea Together" and included reports on the status, achievements, and future plans of three advisory councils and 16 presidential committees tasked with national priorities.

President Lee noted, "In two weeks, it will be the one-year anniversary of our government. While the past year was primarily focused on normalizing a disordered domestic system, it is now time to achieve tangible improvements in the lives of our citizens with a new vision."

He urged the committees to actively gather opinions, create policy alternatives, and provide advice to the president, stating, "Each committee has its essential functions. Please ensure that your activities are smooth and vigorous."

Lee also encouraged direct communication, saying, "If you have something to say to me directly, please feel free to share your thoughts through the chat room."

He remarked on the changing landscape of understanding public sentiment, saying, "In the past, those in power would visit neighborhoods to gauge the situation, but nowadays, simply engaging with various communities and social media can provide a clear picture of public opinion."

Regarding the treatment of advisory council members, he expressed concern, stating, "I sometimes feel that the treatment of chairs and members is inadequate. These individuals bring valuable expertise and dedicate their time, yet the practical compensation is insufficient."

During the subsequent closed-door discussion, committee chairs reported on their work and shared opinions. They requested enhanced feedback from the presidential office and increased administrative support and budget allocations.

Kim Seong-sik, vice chair of the National Economic Advisory Council, noted that the budget execution rate during the previous administration was low, leading to automatic reductions, and requested that the budget allocation criteria be updated to reflect 2022 standards.

Kim Won-jung, chair of the Asian Cultural Center Establishment Committee, stated, "Due to regional limitations in Gwangju, we have not yet achieved the status of a competitive Asian cultural center. We aim to build a new city that embodies the spirit of Gwangju, committing to this mission with the resolve of independence fighters."

President Lee addressed the Future Defense Strategy Committee, highlighting the differing military responses during the Gwangju Uprising and the December 2021 insurrection, attributing these differences to the democratic awareness of soldiers and citizens. He stressed the importance of democratization and culture within the military.

To Baek Jong-woo, chair of the National Life Safety Committee, he stated, "One of our government's key tasks is to reduce our alarmingly high suicide rate. Please conduct thorough research on this issue and prepare effective measures, particularly regarding depression."

He also expressed disappointment over the lack of traditional architectural designs in the recent presidential office design competition, urging the National Architecture Policy Committee, led by Kim Jin-ae, to propose freely without being constrained by regulations and procedures.

Additionally, Lee Seok-yeon, chair of the National Integration Committee, who raised concerns about misconduct within the Blue House the previous day, attended the meeting. The Blue House responded to his allegations by stating that an internal review and investigation would take place.

In his remarks, Lee emphasized that true national unity begins with those in power reaching out and creating pathways for collaboration, pledging to play a role in fostering unity and making it a celebration for all citizens.