Well when I was young, actually not just me, but we were all poor. Korea used to be one of the poorest countries in the world. Despite such circumstances, I was very, very fortunate to be blessed with having parents who always instilled in a spirit of can-do spirit.
My wife, well she has extensive experience, because before becoming the first lady, she was the wife of the CEO of a large conglomerate. So I have very high hopes that she will carry out her job successfully as first lady of the Republic of Korea.
One of the most important reasons for North Korea continuing its nuclear ambitions is to consolidate the power to stay within the Kim Jong Il family.
Talking about Korea, it has pretty high capital ratios at banks and maintains a good credit rating.
I plan to eliminate the equity cap in investment, and I also plan large-scale deregulation to meet global standards.
Yes, I don't believe that the inter-Korean relationship has, quote, 'deteriorated' since I assumed office. Rather I believe that the relationship between the two Koreas is entering into a new phase - a time of transition. And so I think that the North Koreans are trying to see what they can build with this, with my new administration.
Fiscal crises often turn into financial crises, dealing a blow to the real economy.
Fortunately, when Korea was struck by the 1997/8 financial crisis, that was a good opportunity for us to engage in fundamental reforms and strengthen our financial structure. As a result, our financial regulatory structure and regime have been very much strengthened.
The endgame is peaceful reunification of the Korean peninsula.
I've noticed that in the U.S., when the president hits the three-year mark in office, he goes into re-election campaigning.
For us, from Korea's perspective, China is the number one investment destination as well as number one trading partner.
