The Lee Jae-myung government, the first cabinet appointment of 11 ministries - the first step in reforming state affairs.

First Step of Government Reform

The first appointments of the new administration embody a philosophy that goes beyond mere face changes. Who sits in which position is an implicit declaration of what kind of country the government envisions and where it intends to go. The initial cabinet nominations made immediately after the launch of the Lee Jae-myung administration are events laden with such political and policy implications. This appointment is evaluated as emphasizing a pragmatic approach to governance rather than a mere sharing of power internally, focusing on standards of expertise and performance that transcend partisan boundaries. The situation the new government faces is not simple. Our society stands at the crossroads of numerous structural transitions, including economic instability, climate crisis, changes in international relations, digital transformation, low birth rates, and aging. The practical policy capabilities, rather than political slogans, and the ability to solve problems that the public can feel have become more important than ever. President Lee Jae-myung based his appointments on this recognition of reality, setting "pragmatism and responsibility" as the criteria, and this cabinet is regarded as the first expression of that philosophy institutionalized.

Crossing Boundaries of Composition: Signals of Pragmatism and Integration

The most impressive aspect of this cabinet formation is the 'departure from factions.' In the past, cabinet composition was heavily influenced by political compromises and balancing between the ruling and opposition parties or factions, but the Lee Jae-myung administration is partially dismantling this approach. A notable example is the retention of Song Mi-ryeong, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, appointed by the previous government. This is an unusual decision during a regime transition, and can be seen as a symbolic measure that clarifies the criteria for appointments based on expertise and performance, rather than mere continuity. Additionally, the nomination of former lawmaker Kwon Oh-eul from the opposition as the Minister of Veterans Affairs can be interpreted as an attempt to embody the state task of national integration through personnel choices, rather than just borrowing individuals. Choosing based on achievements and potential, rather than ideology, reflects the overall philosophy of governance. This shift in paradigm from political maneuvering to practical affairs, from favoritism to capability, and from loyalty to performance is evident.

Changes in the Chief of the Government Policy Coordination Office and Cabinet Composition

The nominee Yoon Chang-ryeol, designated as the head of the Office for Government Policy Coordination, is expected to serve as a central figure in policy coordination and adjustment during complex crises, drawing on his experience across both public and private sectors. The emergence of individuals who are not aligned with specific factions and have been active in the private sector across the entire cabinet symbolizes a shift in government operations. A precise placement of expertise and policy tasks has been established, highlighting a design that can lead to substantial contributions from each department. As seen in the appointments so far, the focus on expertise in human composition is expected to enhance the efficiency of national governance.

Precise allocation towards expertise and policy tasks

Another notable feature of the current cabinet is its 'strategic appointments.' The precise arrangement, considering the characteristics of each ministry and the challenges at hand, stands out, and the design that allows each individual's experience and strengths to lead to tangible contributions in their respective policy areas is remarkable. For example, Baek Kyu-hoon, nominated as the Minister of Science and ICT, is a leading figure in AI technology in the private sector and has experience in leading the development of the super-large AI 'Exaone.' He is regarded as a capable candidate to balance technological advancement with social acceptance, having been deeply involved not only in technology but also in ethics and social responsibility. Cho Hyun, nominated as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, possesses a rare background as someone who has served as both the 1st and 2nd Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, with extensive experience in multilateral diplomacy in places such as France and the United Nations.

The weight of expectations and the threshold of validation

The individuals assigned to each ministry are evaluated not only on their experience but also on their ability to bring about substantial changes and contributions in the respective policy areas. However, the challenges are as great as the expectations. Above all, they must undergo a confirmation hearing, and some candidates may face scrutiny over their past records or political attacks. Furthermore, cooperation between parties and social persuasion are crucial in the process of implementing policies. If political flexibility, communication skills, and building trust with the public do not accompany the individual's capabilities, policies may end up being hollow rhetoric.

Can the new cabinet serve as a cornerstone for new politics?

The first cabinet of the Lee Jae-myung government aims for a balance of practicality and expertise, heralding a new model of governance. This is not merely a list of individuals but signifies a transition in national governance philosophy and political grammar, responding to the contemporary demand for outcome-based administration and citizen-centric policies. Ultimately, the public remembers 'who became the minister' rather than 'what that minister has achieved.' National renewal is completed through people, and if this cabinet takes the first step toward that change, pragmatism can come to the side of the people as a solution for life rather than the language of politics.