Home ministry to change English name

By Kim Se-jeong

The Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs said Friday it will change its English name to the Ministry of the Interior.

According to a ministry official, the new name will officially come into use soon after the Cabinet’s approval later this month. It has been a subject of discussion with experts.

The name change comes after criticism from foreigners that the name gave little idea about the ministry’s role and function.

Some other ministries are considering adopting new English names following similar criticism.

However, the Ministry of Strategy and Finance, for which some critics have proposed “planning” instead of “strategy,” decided to keep its current name.

The move is generally welcomed, but some are skeptical.

“How long will it last? Only until a new president is elected and he or she reorganizes ministries and government agencies?” said a Seoul resident surnamed Lee.

It is common for a new president to create a new mix of the Cabinet when being sworn in. Some civic groups have suggested that the number of ministries and their functions should be outlined by law.