Im Kwang-hyun, the new chief of staff to the president, urged Cheong Wa Dae officials on October 19 to provide candid feedback and actively coordinate policies. He emphasized the importance of seeking solutions for government operations rather than merely conveying departmental opinions.
According to a written briefing by Deputy Spokesperson Ahn Gyu-ryeong, during a "Dialogue with Employees" held at the Cheong Wa Dae guesthouse, Im stated, "Sometimes we need to support the president from a step ahead, and sometimes from a step behind. We must not shy away from giving honest feedback and speaking the truth."
Regarding the role of Cheong Wa Dae, he remarked, "Cheong Wa Dae is not just a place for relaying departmental positions. It should be a place where various opinions are coordinated to turn the impossible into possible, fostering a harmonious government operation."
Im linked the goals of government operations to improving citizens' lives. He said, "Our sole aim is the success of the Lee Jae-myung administration, which is the path to enhancing the lives of our citizens. If we put our hearts into it, we can surely achieve it."
He also stressed the importance of establishing discipline among public officials, stating, "Fundamentally, we are all public servants. We must be particularly mindful of our words and actions, and our work must not be lax."
Im, who shared his experience working in Cheong Wa Dae during the Roh Moo-hyun administration, expressed his intention to communicate closely with staff. He had previously ordered the establishment of an 'anonymous suggestion box' as his first directive after taking office and listened to employees' suggestions regarding work methods and organizational operations.
One employee requested efforts to maintain pride in achieving results at Cheong Wa Dae over the long term. Another employee urged for broader engagement with stakeholders, including policy targets and experts, to ensure their voices are reflected in policies.
Cheong Wa Dae plans to create both online and offline communication channels where anyone, regardless of rank, can freely express their opinions.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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