Summary of the Republic of Korea's Open Cabinet Meeting Dialogue

Summary of the Republic of Korea's Open Cabinet Meeting Dialogue

 

(President Lee Jae-myung has been broadcasting Cabinet meetings since his inauguration. I believe this is a truly democratic government. I hope politicians in other countries will also gain insight from these public meetings in Korea.)

 

[The 2nd Cabinet Meeting - January 20, 2026]

Theme: Pragmatic Governance and Digital Democracy

• President Lee: "The people are the true masters of governance. We must actively integrate elements of direct democracy into our administration by listening to their voices in real-time."
• Minister of Interior: "In line with that, we have completed the development of a regional incentive index to encourage balanced growth outside the capital."
• President Lee: "That’s good. We must ensure that living in rural areas is not a disadvantage. Also, regarding the civilian drone issue—illegal incursions into North Korea are unacceptable."
• Minister of Defense: "We are currently investigating the matter. It appears some individuals acted independently, but we are checking for any institutional links."
• President Lee: "Such reckless acts could provoke conflict. We must strictly sanction these activities to protect national safety and prevent unnecessary tension."
• President Lee: "Moving on to tax issues—how is the 'Tax Delinquency Management Team' recruitment going?"
• Commissioner of National Tax Service: "We are recruiting 500 members for now, and the competition is over 6 to 1. We plan to expand this to 4,000 members as instructed."
• President Lee: "Don't be too timid. There is over 130 trillion KRW in unpaid taxes. Collecting this is both tax justice and a way to create jobs."
• Minister of Interior: "We will also coordinate with local governments to ensure their delinquency management is just as rigorous."
• President Lee: "Exactly. Use the collected funds to pay the teams. It’s a win-win for the budget and for social fairness."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bgJaVy1mco

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[The 3rd Cabinet Meeting - January 27, 2026]

Theme: Curbing Bubbles and Ensuring Consistency

• President Lee: "Look at our neighbors who suffered a 'Lost 30 Years' due to real estate bubbles. We must strictly control unproductive expansion in the housing market."
• Minister of Economy: "We are shifting our focus from real estate speculation to productive investments like the stock market to ensure long-term stability."
• President Lee: "The success of any reform depends on consistency. We cannot let minor ripples or immediate resistance sway our core policies."
• Minister of Justice: "To support this, we are expanding the Special Judicial Police (SJP) to professionalize investigations into unfair market practices."
• President Lee: "Professionalism is key. We need a system where honest, law-abiding citizens never feel like they are at a disadvantage."
• Minister of Interior: "Today also marks the official launch of the 'Basic Society' Committee. We are ready to draft the blueprint for fundamental life guarantees."
• President Lee: "The 'Basic Society' is not just a slogan; it’s a national commitment to provide a minimum quality of life for every single citizen."
• Prime Minister: "I will oversee the inter-ministerial cooperation to ensure that the 'Basic Society' policies don't overlap and reach those in need."
• President Lee: "Public officials must lead this change. We need a disciplined culture where excellence is rewarded and misconduct is strictly held accountable."
• President Lee: "Fairness in personnel management is the foundation. If the leadership plays favorites, the entire administrative organization loses its authority."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=An7ZeagoJno&t=59s

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[The 4th Cabinet Meeting - February 9, 2026]

Theme: Protecting Sovereignty and Social Safety Nets

• President Lee: "We’ve raised the bail for illegal fishing to 1.5 billion KRW. This isn't just about money; it's about protecting our maritime sovereignty."
• Minister of Oceans and Fisheries: "The enforcement is underway. The increased fines serve as a strong deterrent against foreign vessels plundering our resources."
• President Lee: "Regarding the 'Unconditional donation(그냥드림)' food support—how is the expansion progressing?"
• Minister of Health and Welfare: "We are increasing the number of centers. It’s a vital safety net to ensure that no one in this developed democracy goes hungry."
• President Lee: "Hunger in a wealthy nation is a systemic failure. We must ensure this program reaches the most vulnerable without bureaucratic red tape."
• Minister of Land and Infrastructure: "We are also accelerating the housing supply for the youth and those who don't own homes, despite the market fluctuations."
• President Lee: "Do not be swayed by political calculations for votes. Focus entirely on the homeless and the younger generation."
• Minister of Economy: "We are also refining our tax incentives to encourage corporate investment while discouraging speculative land holding."
• President Lee: "Good. Investment should go into technology and jobs, not sitting on land. The public sector must lead this innovation."

President Lee: "The public sector must not settle for the status quo. Bold, proactive administration is the only way to drive this society forward."

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9uGHMHMs7I