[Editorial] Prime Minister Lee Must Do More than Just Apologize

Prime Minister Lee Hae-chan officially apologized to the people yesterday, taking responsibility for playing golf on the March 1 Independence Movement Day holiday. Speaking through spokesperson Lee Kang-jin, the prime minister said, “I’m very sorry that I caused public concern with my inconsiderate behavior.” He also said he would announce his future course of action when President Roh Moo-hyun returns on March 14 from a tour of Africa.

It’s natural that Prime Minister Lee would apologize. It’s regrettable considering how he’s invited censure because of golf several times since taking office in June 2004. It’s unfortunate that Lee, who was raised to his position as a symbol of reform and ethics, faces crisis, being regarded now as a golf nut who gives the common folk a sense of incongruity.

Of course, Prime Minister Lee has the right to enjoy golf in his free time, just like the public at large. It goes without saying, however, that even if you play golf like a prime minister who takes responsibility for public affairs, you need sense and restraint. Anyone would find it beyond common sense for the prime minister to leisurely head to the golf course on the March 1 holiday and when ministries handling the first day of the railway strike were in a state of high alert. Moreover, the fact that the prime minister’s golfing buddies included several figures implicated in corruption would lead some to be suspicious of the prime minister’s sense of balance as a public servant.

It’s not clear whether Prime Minister Lee’s mentioning of his future course of action means he intents to resign as prime minister. It’s difficult to put this matter behind him, however, just by apologizing through an aide. He must first convincingly explain to the people about the several suspicions related to the golf trip. He’ll be able to start resolving this matter when he sincerely apologizes and takes appropriate measures.

The Hankyoreh, 6 March 2006.

[Translations by Seoul Selection]