President Lee: Tax reform criticism is natural; policy differs from truth

President Lee Jae-myung has strongly defended the government's approach to policy-making, particularly in the face of criticism regarding recent tax reform proposals. Addressing a State Council meeting, Lee stated that policies are inherently open to interpretation and revision, differentiating them from absolute truths. He pushed back against critiques labeling the tax reform as a "patchwork" or inconsistent, arguing that such feedback is a natural and necessary part of the policy process.

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Policies have room for debate and differing opinions, that's why they are policies.

"Policies have room for debate and differing opinions, that's why they are policies," Lee asserted. He explained that when the government proposes a plan, it is an invitation for discussion and a reflection of internal deliberations. "Naturally, there will be counterarguments, and it is desirable to accept them," he added, questioning the logic of critics who demand unwavering adherence to initial proposals.

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Naturally, there will be counterarguments, and it is desirable to accept them.

Lee further elaborated on the importance of internal government debate, citing the recent disagreement between the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Ministry of Labor regarding potential exceptions to the 52-hour workweek for special economic zones. He argued that such inter-ministerial discussions, even if appearing contradictory externally, are preferable to the "closed-door administration" criticized in the past, where only finalized decisions were presented to the public.

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We should not be criticized for having differences of opinion. If we have differences of opinion, we should resolve them through discussion.

Finance Minister Gu Yoon-cheol supported the President's remarks, clarifying that the tax reform proposals were not final. He emphasized that the legislative preview period is specifically for gathering public opinion, which will then be discussed and refined in the National Assembly. Lee concluded by acknowledging that any changes to tax laws inevitably draw criticism from those who benefit from the status quo, but stressed that engaging with public feedback is crucial for effective governance.

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The tax bill we submitted is not the government's final decision. Why is there a legislative preview period? It is to listen to opinions sufficiently.