Government to station conflict-resolution officers across agencies; president urges support for staff handling disputes
[Herald Economy = Reporter Kim Kwang-woo] President Lee Jae-myung said on the 12th that public complaints are like a treasure trove full of national reform tasks.On X (formerly Twitter), he cited an article about the governmentwide policy to place conflict-resolution officers in agencies and commented on it.
He said, "Within complaints lie citizens' voices that should be respected and acted upon."
On so-called malicious complaints, he said, "There are rarely cases in which people knowingly make unfounded claims," and added that chronic, repetitive complaints can devastate complainants' lives and lead to administrative waste.
He continued, "Many misunderstandings, distrust, and ill will can be largely resolved through sincere dialogue and mutual respect. If you invest sufficient time and engage in in-depth conversation, many complaints will be resolved."
He also emphasized, "Many complaints can be addressed simply by calmly and reasonably explaining, with evidence, why something cannot be done. It is absolutely unacceptable to placate angry complainants with evasive reassurances such as 'Let's try working together' or 'We'll actively consider it.'"
Finally, he encouraged the officials handling conflicts, saying, "I thank the civil servants who do their best, and I place high expectations on you."
