Yoon Outlines ‘4+1’ Reform Agenda, Emphasizing Sustainability and InternationalStandards
Seoul, August 29, 2024– South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol today outlined his government’s ambitious 4+1 reform agenda, focusing on key areas of pension, healthcare, education, labor, and low birth rate, during a national policy briefing and press conference held at the presidential office in Yongsan. The president detailed the government’s specific measures and policy directions to implement these reforms.
Addressing the pension reform, President Yoon emphasized the need for legal guarantees to ensure young people’s confidence in the system. He stated that the reform’s three core principles aresustainability, intergenerational equity, and securing elderly income.
Regarding healthcare reform, President Yoon acknowledged the structural issue of over-reliance on interns and resident doctors in tertiary hospitals. He outlined the government’s plan to shift towards a systemcentered around specialist doctors and Physician Assistants (PAs), aiming to improve the quality and accessibility of healthcare services. He also highlighted the importance of expanding medical school enrollment and strengthening the regional and basic healthcare system.
On labor reform, President Yoon stressed the importance of aligning with international standards and ensuring flexibility in the labor market.He did not elaborate on specific measures but emphasized the need to create a more dynamic and adaptable workforce.
In the education sector, President Yoon proposed a national after-school care system, aimed at providing consistent and reliable support for students. He also outlined plans to promote innovation in regional universities, aiming to enhance their competitiveness andattract talent.
Addressing the critical issue of low birth rate, President Yoon announced the establishment of a Population Strategy Planning Department under a Vice Prime Minister. This new department will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive policies to address the demographic challenges facing South Korea, including the declining birth rate and aging population.
Onthe current economic situation, President Yoon expressed optimism, stating that the economy is showing signs of a clear recovery. He highlighted the government’s efforts in regulatory reform, fostering a semiconductor supercluster, and reviving the nuclear power industry as key drivers of economic growth.
The 4+1 reform agenda represents a significantundertaking by the Yoon administration, aiming to address key societal challenges and ensure a sustainable future for South Korea. The president’s emphasis on international standards, intergenerational equity, and economic growth underscores his commitment to building a more competitive and resilient nation.
The press conference was attended by a large number of journalists, who eagerlysought clarification on the specific details of the proposed reforms. President Yoon’s announcement has sparked a lively debate among policymakers, economists, and the public, with varying opinions on the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed measures.
The government’s commitment to implementing these reforms will be closely watched in the coming months, asSouth Korea navigates the complex challenges of a rapidly changing global landscape.
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