On the 14th, Financial Services Commission nominee Lee Eok-yeon said, "I will push forward policies rapidly so that the public can feel the national finance tasks, including a major shift to productive finance, strengthening inclusive finance, and developing and activating a sound capital market."
On the same day, the nominee stated during his commute to the Seoul Deposit Insurance Corporation in Jung-gu, Seoul, where a preparation office for his confirmation hearing was set up, "In a complex and difficult situation, the role of finance is more important than ever for overcoming multiple crises and for the Korean economy to truly take off again." He added, "Having been assigned to such an important task during this time weighs heavily on my shoulders, and I feel a tremendous sense of responsibility," and noted, "I will do my utmost in my efforts."
The nominee evaluated the current economic situation, saying, "Domestically, the lives of ordinary people and the macroeconomic situation are very difficult," and "Internationally, full-blown conflicts such as tariff wars, artificial intelligence (AI), and technology wars are occurring." He added, "Structurally, there are issues such as population decline, stagnation in growth, and polarization."
The nominee emphasized, "I will listen to various voices and lead changes with a fierce sense of problem awareness, open-mindedness, and an open attitude," highlighting ordinary citizens and small businesses.
Regarding productive finance, the nominee responded, "I think how quickly and fundamentally we change the flow of funds is what productive finance is about." He stated, "Looking at the reality of Korean finance, it remains focused on real estate and does not enhance overall societal productivity but stays confined to the current finance," and said, "We need to enhance the national economy's overall added value innovatively and from the perspective of Mirae Industries."
Regarding his relationship with Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) head Lee Chan-jin, the nominee stated, "I believe we must maintain a close cooperative relationship for the development of the financial industry," and "I spoke with the FSS head the day before and conveyed this intention, and the FSS head expressed agreement on the same grounds."
However, the nominee mentioned regarding the reorganization of the financial supervisory system, "As a candidate, I think it is appropriate not to comment on that." He also stated regarding specific financial policies, "I will discuss individual policies in due time."