[fn Editorial] To Become 'Everyone's President', One Must Listen to Opposing Voices

Lee Jae-myung, the President, marked his 100th day in office on the 11th. President Lee held a press conference that day and emphasized, "In line with the promise to become 'everyone's president' who embraces and serves all citizens, I will move forward with politics and administration of integration." Although the period since the new government launched is short, it is encouraging that there are positive evaluations in various aspects, from breaking the highest KOSPI index record to promoting practical diplomacy and recovering consumer sentiment.

However, this also reflects the event effect following the launch of the new government. Therefore, the real test begins now. President Lee also emphasized that he will lead the state affairs with strong leadership during his tenure, considering these points. However, it is also true that there are some concerning parts in the press conference that day. He expressed his will too strongly on issues with pros and cons.

First, regarding the expansionary fiscal policy, President Lee asserted, "It is an inevitable measure to create a turning point." This is based on the logic that if a virtuous cycle structure is created through productive investment, it can be sufficiently recovered later. However, it is uncertain whether the optimistic effects of the expansionary fiscal policy will actually appear. Fiscal conservatives therefore suggest that we carefully consider the risk factors inherent in expansionary fiscal policy. It is necessary to listen to the voices on fiscal soundness raised based on rational grounds and maintain a sense of balance.

The energy policy, including nuclear power, is the same. President Lee firmly stated that "there is almost no possibility" of constructing new nuclear power plants. This goes beyond focusing on expanding renewable energy and is akin to declaring a second phase of denuclearization. While expanding the solar and wind industries is the path to carbon neutrality, retrying denuclearization could cause significant damage to the country. Considering long-term energy security and stable power supply, it is questionable whether excluding the role of nuclear power is indeed the right decision. It is hoped that he will listen to the realities of nuclear and renewable energy presented by energy experts.

Regarding the controversy over the special tribunal for rebellion, he also questioned strongly, "What unconstitutionality?" This too dismisses the controversy over potential unconstitutionality raised by constitutional scholars and the legal community. It is considered necessary to have an attitude of deliberation through legal review and social consensus processes.

The new government defines the past 100 days as a time for recovery and normalization. The remaining 4 years and 9 months are said to be a time for leap and growth. To smoothly pursue the national tasks set by the new government, public opinion integration is essential. We have experienced and witnessed politics that failed by pushing policies with dogmatism and stubbornness both domestically and internationally.

If policies are pushed forward in a way that ignores rational concerns and criticisms from the opposition, it will only amplify social friction. Moreover, our society is deeply divided internally. If political polarization, generational conflict, and ideological confrontation are left unattended with a divisive approach, integration will remain distant.

The path to becoming 'everyone's president' is not that simple. It must start with an attitude of listening to the voices of citizens with different opinions, not just those who support him. It is hoped that he will demonstrate leadership that heals a divided society and achieves national integration by listening to and embracing different voices.