Policy Chief Kim Yong-beom Resigns… Government Accelerates Personnel Reform Following Second Cabinet Reshuffle
As President Lee Myung-bak embarked on a reform of state affairs by carrying out a second cabinet reshuffle on the 30th of last month, Policy Chief Kim Yong-beom announced his resignation just two days after his appointment. This reshuffle was a medium-scale change that replaced ministers across six ministries, including the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.
Policy Chief Kim's sudden resignation is interpreted as a result reflecting the demands for personnel changes that have been continuously raised within the ruling party. A government official explained that this decision is a measure to secure momentum for pushing forward new policies and to increase the efficiency of state administration.
In political circles, attention is focused on how this resignation demonstrates the government's will for reform and what changes it will bring to the future direction of state affairs. In particular, the key challenge emerging is how much this cabinet reshuffle, centered on economic ministries, can provide practical help in stabilizing people's livelihoods and revitalizing the economy.
The Blue House plans to proceed with follow-up personnel appointments quickly following Policy Chief Kim's resignation. The government stated its position that it will regain stability in state administration through this personnel reform and push forward with major policies without setbacks.