President Lee Jae-myung Expresses Concern for 9 Missing Nationals in Nepal, Pledges Support

President Lee Jae-myung has voiced profound concern for the safety of nine South Korean nationals who remain unaccounted for following a massive flash flood in Nepal. The disaster struck a region in northern Nepal near the border with China, prompting the South Korean government to mobilize search and rescue operations.

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It is deeply regrettable that the whereabouts of nine of our citizens are currently unknown. I ask for your heartfelt support for their swift and safe return.

"It is deeply regrettable that the whereabouts of nine of our citizens are currently unknown," President Lee stated during an luncheon with mayors, county chiefs, and district heads on Tuesday. He urged for national support and prayers for their swift and safe return. The President also announced that he would postpone a scheduled senior staff meeting to convene an emergency review session on the situation.

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The seeds of innovation, the beginning of administrative action, and the completion of welfare all originate from the regions.

In addition to addressing the crisis abroad, President Lee emphasized the importance of domestic balanced development. He highlighted the administration's principle of promoting growth led by local regions and detailed plans to strengthen support for areas further from Seoul through special regional development programs. He warned that the dual challenges of excessive concentration in the Seoul metropolitan area and the potential demise of rural regions pose a severe threat to South Korea's future.

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If we cannot resolve these issues, there is no future for South Korea.

"Local governments are on the front lines, closest to the people," President Lee remarked. "The seeds of innovation, the beginning of administrative action, and the completion of welfare all originate from the regions." He expressed confidence that by fostering a spirit of 'one-team cooperation' between the central government and local authorities, a happier South Korea can be built for all its citizens.

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By fostering a spirit of 'one-team cooperation' between the central government and local authorities, a happier South Korea can be built for all its citizens.