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Removing uncertainties from martial law fiasco is top priority: acting president

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By Lee Kyung-min
  • Published Dec 31, 2024 3:55 pm KST
  • Updated Jan 1, 2025 4:47 pm KST
Acting President Choi Sang-mok speaks during a meeting of top government officials at Seoul Government Complex in Gwanghwamun, Tuesday. Yonhap

Acting President Choi Sang-mok speaks during a meeting of top government officials at Seoul Government Complex in Gwanghwamun, Tuesday. Yonhap

Removing uncertainties both within the country and abroad to bolster the livelihoods of the public will be the top government priority for 2025 in weathering the martial law fiasco, the country’s acting president said in his New Year’s address, released Tuesday.

Equally important will be stable management of Korea’s creditworthiness and containment of local financial and foreign exchange market volatilities, underpinned by close cooperation among government ministries and agencies.

The second Trump administration and the ensuing trade and tariff uncertainties will be navigated with full government preparation in the areas encompassing diplomacy, security and defense.

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“The government will do its utmost to ensure that the policy drives bolster the livelihoods of the public,” acting President Choi Sang-mok said in the New Year’s address.

“Key budgets will be implemented next month. Small businesses and self-employed will be prioritized in the government assistance to boost domestic consumption.”

A sense of unity and harmony will be promoted through close and continued communication with the National Assembly, both the ruling and opposition blocs, as well as leaders of civil society, he added.

“Tall tasks lie ahead of us. The challenges will be overcome with the wisdom of leading senior social minds.”

Emergency medical systems will be operated around the clock, for the security and safety of the public, he said.

“The government will root out deepfake crimes and jeonse fraud – a source of growing social distrust and driver of the suffering of many.”

Unique to Korea, jeonse is a home renting system whereby tenants pay a lump-sum refundable deposit in lieu of monthly rent.

He expressed his deepest condolences to the families of victims of the Jeju Air crash in Muan on Sunday.

“The cause of the accident will be identified, followed by prevention measures,” he said.