South Korean Prime Minister Han Seong-sook stated on October 8 that "the uncertainty surrounding climate and the natural environment is increasing," urging that as technology and industry advance, the government must boldly adapt even familiar methods to meet the times.
During the 15th National Policy Coordination Meeting held at the Government Sejong Complex, Han emphasized, "If the pace of rapidly changing realities outstrips our systems and policies, the resulting inconveniences and burdens will fall squarely on the public."
The meeting began with discussions on the 'Data-Based Innovation in Coastal Fisheries Management and Regulatory Rationalization Plan.' This initiative aims to improve the structure of coastal fisheries and reduce regulatory burdens on fishermen through management based on catch data and restructuring of overcapacity in fishing vessels.
The plan seeks to shift from a regulatory approach that dictates specific catching methods to a system that manages total allowable catch (TAC) based on scientific data. To achieve this, the government plans to enhance the collection and verification system for fishing data and reduce the current regulations on over 1,500 fishing gear and methods by half by 2031.
Additionally, to enhance fishing productivity, the government will encourage the reduction of overcapacity in fishing vessels and support the modernization of aging boats through a government-funded program, thereby alleviating the initial financial burden on fishermen. This approach aims to restore fishery resources, improve fishing productivity and profitability, and enhance transparency in the catch and distribution processes, ultimately strengthening the competitiveness of K-seafood exports.
The meeting also addressed measures to prevent autumn wildfires. In anticipation of the 'Autumn Wildfire Prevention Period,' the government has bolstered its firefighting resources, including increasing the number of firefighting helicopters and vehicles, as well as expanding the special firefighting team. To prevent wildfires caused by agricultural waste, the government plans to enhance support for the shredding of agricultural byproducts and expand fire safety zones around facilities adjacent to forests, such as homes and temples. Furthermore, a wildfire prevention headquarters will be activated, and a national wildfire response team will be established to ensure rapid response and maintain a comprehensive government-wide response system in the event of a wildfire.
The meeting also reviewed the status and future plans for the integration of non-emergency consultation numbers into a single number, 110. Previously, citizens faced the inconvenience of having to search for the contact numbers of 697 different government agencies for consultations. The government plans to gradually consolidate 34 representative consultation numbers from central administrative agencies into the 110 system. This change is expected to enhance the convenience of government consultation services, allowing citizens to remember just one number to receive necessary consultations and guidance to the appropriate agencies.
In this context, Prime Minister Han instructed each ministry to "thoroughly explain the intent and achievements of the policies pursued thus far to the National Assembly and the public during the National Assembly's audit, humbly accept any criticisms of shortcomings, and promptly address what is necessary."
She also emphasized that "while the times and methods have changed, the essence of the Korean language and today's National Assembly audit always centers on the people." She concluded by stating, "All efforts to change systems, ensure safety, and improve administrative services must start and end with the people, and I will strive to create a government that meets the changing times with a focus solely on the citizens."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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