UN chief shows confidence in Korea's democratic resilience despite political turmoil
Acting President Choi Sang-mok talks with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in Seoul, provided by the finance ministry, Jan. 10. Yonhap
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Friday he has complete confidence in Korea's democratic resilience, according to the Seoul government.
Guterres made the remarks during a phone conversation with acting President Choi Sang-mok, the finance ministry said, as the country faces political uncertainty stemming from President Yoon Suk Yeol's botched attempt at imposing martial law and his subsequent impeachment last month.
The ministry quoted Guterres as saying that he fully trusts Korea's robust democratic system and its ability to recover from crises.
The U.N. chief also expressed expectations for Korea's continued role in revitalizing U.N.-centered multilateralism.
In response, Choi emphasized that Korea will continue to contribute to global peace and prosperity through active engagement as a member of the United Nations and a rotating member of its Security Council.
Choi assumed the interim leadership role after the National Assembly voted to impeach Yoon on Dec. 14, and then acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo two weeks later. (Yonhap)