Prime Minister Han Sung-sook said today (the 14th), regarding the downward trend in the administration's approval ratings, "We are well aware of the voice of the public conveyed through the approval ratings."

Prime Minister Han made the remark during the National Assembly's interpellation session today when People Power Party lawmaker Seo Bum-su asked whether the administration was ignoring public sentiment, citing controversies surrounding appointments in the second-term cabinet reshuffle.

Prime Minister Han added, "We are listening, and we are taking this matter very seriously and heavily. As Prime Minister, I take this truly seriously regarding how much better I need to do and how much more I must do my utmost."

When lawmaker Seo asked whether she had any intention to apologize as the official who recommended Gender Equality and Family Minister nominee Yong Hye-in for appointment, Prime Minister Han said, "(Resignation) is up to the individual to decide," while adding, "Once the final stages proceed and if there were problematic issues related to the recommendation, we will sort them out."

Furthermore, when lawmaker Seo pointed out that the positions of National Police Agency Commissioner General and Prosecutor General have been vacant for a long time, Prime Minister Han replied, "Appropriate figures will be appointed in accordance with the reorganization of the criminal justice system," and added, "I believe the appointments will now proceed rapidly."

When People Power Party lawmaker Kim Jang-gyum also pointed out the situation of falling approval ratings, Prime Minister Han emphasized, "We must do our utmost in areas where we fall short to gain the public's trust. At the same time, I believe we must properly push forward with the tasks we are currently undertaking and considering important."

When lawmaker Kim asked, "With Chuseok approaching, are there any groundbreaking measures to restore state momentum?" Prime Minister Han answered, "There are various discussions underway, and it seems there are matters the President will address. As Prime Minister, I am focusing on Chuseok livelihood prices and ensuring that the public experiences no inconveniences."

When lawmaker Kim asked, "Is there a plan to distribute livelihood support funds?" Prime Minister Han only replied, "Livelihood support funds had significance in boosting consumption last year, and this has been mentioned by many foreign media outlets and research institutions."

When lawmaker Kim pointed out, "The personnel line is being pointed to as led by Kim Hyun-ji, Secretary to the President," Prime Minister Han repeatedly emphasized, "I state clearly that what you are mentioning is completely untrue."

When Democratic Party of Korea lawmaker Choi Min-hee offered consolation by saying, "Approval ratings are falling and you are not receiving praise, so you must be having a hard time," Prime Minister Han said, "Ratings go up and down, and when they go down, I think it is time to properly understand what message (the public) is sending and return to the initial mindset we once had."

Meanwhile, when Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Young-ho requested inspections and investigations, claiming that the liquidation reserve funds of reconstruction associations are being managed opaquely, Prime Minister Han promised, "We will consult with related ministries and examine and pursue the relevant details centered around the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport."

(Photo: Yonhap News)