(LEAD) Lee calls for eradication of persistent corruption in politics

SEOUL, Aug. 21 (Yonhap) -- In his first meeting of the anti-corruption policy conference, President Lee Jae Myung on Friday urged the eradication of corruption in politics and among public officials, asserting that fairness is essential for the nation's growth. During the gathering of heads of 18 key government ministries and agencies, Lee emphasized the need to thoroughly investigate and eliminate persistent corruption in political circles, stating that persistent efforts are necessary until citizens sense a real change.

He also highlighted the importance of combating corruption among public officials, citing a 2025 global survey that ranked South Korea 31st in fairness among 182 countries. The president stressed that as the country's economic and national power grows, the standard of integrity required of public officials must also increase, demanding immediate redress of any corruption.

Lee underscored that maintaining domestic fairness is a prerequisite as the nation strives to become an "irreplaceable South Korea," reinforcing his commitment to leading the country in emerging industries. Discussions at the conference were expected to cover measures to prevent misuse of state funds, such as illegal subsidies, and corruption involving former officials.