President Kim Urges Government to Refresh Outlook

President Kim Dae-jung May 23 identified what he called "the people's fatigue with current national affairs," on May 23. He proposed that "we make a new start and put sincere efforts into every aspect of national affairs."

President Kim formalized Lee Han-dong's role as acting prime minister and commented to the cabinet that "this is an extremely significant period, in which we are approaching the South-North summit and turning to the second half of this administrative term," at the Chong Wa Dae State Council.

President Kim especially emphasized "various concerns on possible economic risks have been raised. We must preclude any possible crisis with reform, including financial restructuring. It is important that we stabilize the economy by eliminating all uncertainties by June," he added.

Furthermore, President Kim requested that acting Prime Minister Lee "fulfill his role to encourage the government bureaux to work smoothly and without conflict."

by Kim Jin-kook