President Lee Orders Full Preparations for Launch of Serious Crimes Agency During Brazil Visit

While on a state visit to Brazil, President Lee Jae-myung chaired a virtual senior staff meeting, directing officials to ensure all preparations are complete for the upcoming launch of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency. The agency and the Prosecution Service are scheduled to launch on October 2.

During the meeting, Senior Civil Affairs Secretary Han Chan-sik reported on the agency's readiness. Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong relayed the President's emphasis on public officials distinguishing between public and private matters and adhering to the principle of prioritizing public service. The Civil Affairs Office was instructed to diligently monitor self-regulatory functions within each ministry.

The meeting also covered responses to disinformation. President Lee, after receiving a report on the enforcement of the Information and Communications Network Act concerning fake and manipulated news, stated that relevant agencies need to demonstrate a firm response to cases distorting public opinion through such means, especially in the early stages of the law's implementation.

Further discussions included a report from National Security Office First Deputy Director Kang Geon-jak on eradicating illegal Chinese fishing near the Northern Limit Line, prompting a directive for thorough countermeasures. Second Deputy Director Im Eung-soon presented on supporting second-generation overseas Koreans who have not acquired Korean nationality, with the President requesting creative solutions. Third Deputy Director Song Ki-ho reported on stabilizing the supply chain for key minerals, leading to a directive to establish an agency for continuous response to supply chain issues.

President Lee reiterated his call for the presidential staff to focus on conceptualizing new initiatives beyond the scope of routine operations, emphasizing the presidential office's role as the "brain" while ministries handle execution. He noted that while the initial phase of the government focused on correcting irregularities, the focus should now shift, with the Prime Minister assuming greater authority and responsibility for execution, and the presidential office concentrating on oversight and planning.