문대통령 "성과 체감 위해 지역경제 회복 시급"...홍남기 "성과로 말하고 성과로 승부내야"
South Korean President Moon Jae-in has said the nation's economy is looking solid at the macro level... but added that indicators regarding people's livelihoods are not looking good.
President Moon's new economic chief also expressed the importance of producing tangible economic results in his inauguration speech.
Our Ko Roon-hee reports.
A reality check on the country's economy.
Chairing the weekly Cabinet meeting at the government complex in Sejong City for the first time, President Moon Jae-in said the issue of revitalizing regional economies is an urgent matter.
He said the country's economic growth lies with the regional economies and said there is much that still needs to be resolved.
"We've yet to tackle economic polarization and the difficulties faced by small businesses and the self-employed. Regions where traditional industries such as shipbuilding, autos and steelmaking took a hit are suffering as well. Prosperity through inclusive growth cannot be reached without solving such problems."
President Moon added that it is important for South Koreans to tangibly feel the economic accomplishments of his administration.
And those sentiments were reiterated by the new finance minister Hong Nam-ki.
During his inaugural speech, Hong, who also doubles as deputy Prime Minister, said the tangible outcomes will speak for themselves.
He said he will focus on the administration's three major economic tenets: income-led growth, innovative growth and a fair economy,... and said he will not hesitate in making tough calls.
In his speech, minister Hong said... he will strengthen communication with the private sector.
And when problems occur, he vowed to solve those through dialogue and coordination.
When bold action is needed, he promised to not hesitate.
Speaking to reporters afterwards, the top economic policymaker said he will prepare a structural reform plan for the country's minimum-wage by the first quarter of next year.
And he said he will frequently discuss urgent matters with economy-related ministers... and meet with President Moon's chief of staff for policy, Kim Soo-hyun, every week.
Ko Roon-hee, Arirang News.
