PM Lee: ‘The Cabinet, Not Presidential Office, Is in Charge of Executing Policies’

“It is inappropriate for Cheong Wa Dae (the Presidential Office) to step forward to explain or defend every single issue”, Prime Minister Lee Nak-yeon pointed out June 7, in response to the controversy surrounding the effects of minimum wage. The comment interprets as a measure to tighten discipline among the cabinet amidst the disagreements between Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Strategy and Finance Kim Dong Yeon, and Policy Chief Jang Ha-sung at the Presidential Office were publicized and a report from the Korea Development Institute (KDI) provoked controversy.

On this day, Prime Minister Lee hosted a conference to review and control current issues in the Central Government Complex. “The Ministry of Strategy and Finance, Ministry of Employment and Labor and other relevant departments have the responsibility to report changes in labor policies and partial inconsistencies to the public and implement solutions accordingly,” he commented. “Please maximize efforts on your part so that the administration does not have to interfere. The planning, modifying and implementing of policies is up to the cabinet,” he added.
 

His comments imply efforts to unify the government’s voice on issues regarding minimum wage and labor policy and emphasize the role of public figures amidst exposure of arguments among officials. On June 5, Prime Minister Lee advised, “It is neither accurate nor fair to conclude that the increase in minimum wage only had negative effects.” He added, “Establish discipline among the cabined and stay prepared.”

Regarding changes in labor policies including transforming the status of temporary workers to permanent positions, realizing minimum wage or cutting down working hours, Prime Minister Lee commented in the meeting, “We will begin with imminent changes, but our goal is to minimize inconsistencies and difficulties found in the beginning stages to cushion the blow from changes.” He emphasized, “The government will enhance the quality of life for its citizens by paving a wise path by analyzing our economic abilities.” Lee also asked for cooperation to both labor and management saying, “Please work together so that the changes in labor policy can settle in without problems.”