Newly appointed Minister of Environment Kim Wansup emphasized during the ‘21st Minister of Environment Inauguration Ceremony’ held on July 26 in the large conference room of Government Sejong Complex Building 6, “I will realize a sustainable future that improves the lives of the people.”

In his inaugural speech, Minister Kim Wansup stated, “Amid the ongoing climate crisis that has become a part of our daily lives, the expectations and interest of the public in the Ministry of Environment are growing, and the Ministry’s role and responsibilities are becoming increasingly significant.” 

He stated, “The Ministry must not only firmly uphold its fundamental goal of creating a healthy and pleasant environment but also be able to balance the various values of society and the economy.”

Minister Kim Wansup emphasized the importance of a “learning attitude” and the role of the Ministry as a control tower in the era of the climate crisis to the Ministry of Environment staff. He expressed his ambition to create tangible changes for the public, based on a “flexible and horizontal organizational culture” and “active communication both inside and outside the Ministry,” fostering a free and creative atmosphere.

He also presented three key environmental policy directions that the Ministry should focus on moving forward. First, he stated, “Creating a safe environment where the public can feel secure is the top priority,” expressing his commitment to strengthening the climate disaster adaptation system under the belief that there is no such thing as being overly cautious in safety responses.

Next, he stated, “We will create future growth engines based on a solid implementation of carbon neutrality,” adding, “We will responsibly fulfill the 2030 national greenhouse gas reduction targets and establish a strong institutional foundation for this, while supporting the carbon competitiveness of domestic companies to accelerate the green transition of the economy.”

Finally, he stated, “We will steadfastly uphold the foundation of environmental values,” emphasizing that not only will we achieve harmony in the conservation and utilization of natural resources, but we will also focus on improving environmental risk factors such as fine dust, green algae, and harmful chemicals in areas closely related to the lives of the public.

In concluding his inaugural speech, Minister Kim Wansup urged the Ministry staff to “work together to enhance environmental values and create a sustainable future that improves the lives of the people,” pledging to dedicate himself fully to ensuring that the employees feel a sense of fulfillment and pride in their work.

Meanwhile, after the inauguration ceremony, Minister Kim Wansup visited the offices where the Ministry staff work, taking the time to observe the work environment and encouraging and communicating with the employees.

For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division. 

Contact person: Gina Lee, foreign media spokesperson

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