Former Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency head Jung Eun-kyeong, nominated as the first Minister of Health and Welfare in the Lee Jae-myung government, said she feels "a heavy sense of responsibility" and outlined future policy directions.
On the 29th, candidate Jung emphasized in a statement that "the public has endured great pain in the healthcare reform process since last year" and noted that "the welfare demand is increasing due to low birth rates, an aging crisis, and deepening polarization."
She stated that if appointed Minister, she would focus on establishing an income protection system across life stages, preparing a social safety net centered on basic living security, building a care system that encompasses infants to the elderly, and strengthening the national responsibility for care to realize a welfare powerhouse.
In particular, regarding the healthcare sector, she said, "I will resolve conflicts between the government and medical professionals quickly through sincere communication and cooperation" and "I will enhance medical accessibility by strengthening community, essential, and public healthcare, and guarantee health rights through healthcare reform reflecting the voices of the people."
Candidate Jung also presented future tasks such as addressing low birth rates, strengthening socio-economic resilience in a super-aged society, and fostering the biohealth industry, stating, "I will also strive to build a healthcare and welfare system preparing for the future."
She also mentioned her experience as a former head of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, where she led the response to the novel coronavirus infectious disease (COVID-19). Candidate Jung said, "Based on my expertise and practical experience, I will actively communicate with the National Assembly, experts, the field, and the public to prepare policies" and noted, "In the future, I will diligently prepare for the confirmation hearing and provide a more detailed outline."