South Korea's President Launches Public Referral System for Government Officials

South Korea's new president has introduced a "public referral system" to allow citizens to directly participate in selecting high-level government officials. This initiative allows the public to nominate candidates for cabinet minister positions, vice-ministers, and heads of state institutions.

From June 10th to June 16th, South Korean citizens aged 14 and older could submit their nominations. The process involved submitting details such as the candidate's name, area of expertise, contact information, and the reason for the recommendation. Nominations could be submitted through the personnel management ministry's website, the president's social media accounts, or via email.

This initiative is part of the president's effort to promote "popular sovereignty" and more participatory governance. The president's office will compile the submissions into the National Human Resources Database and begin an internal vetting process to create a shortlist. The screening process will involve the presidential secretary for civil service discipline and include an "open" review component.

The referral system fulfills a key campaign promise by the president to enhance grassroots engagement in governance. The president also nominated six new vice ministers for finance, foreign affairs, and industry outside of the public recommendation system. These vice ministerial appointments do not require confirmation hearings by the National Assembly.

The new administration is also focused on restoring the administration and overcoming global protectionism. The president is currently working with ministers appointed by the previous president.

In addition to the public referral system, the presidential office announced that public access to Cheong Wa Dae, the historic Blue House compound, would be partially restricted and fully closed beginning in August. This closure is part of preparations to relocate the presidential office back to Cheong Wa Dae. Public tours of the site will resume once the transition is complete.