Korean Embassy responds

I refer to your publication in relation to President Roh Moo- hyun's impeachment. I have found three articles and two photos related to the matter in your March 13 edition.

In this context allow me to sum up as follows: * The impeachment of a sitting president by the National Assembly is the first ever in the 56-year history of Korean democracy. In accordance with the Constitution, president's powers are in limbo until the Constitutional Court rules on the vote, which could take up to six months, during which time the prime minister assumes the power to conduct state affairs. * The Korean government of the acting president, Prime Minister Goh Kun, has dealt with the situation sharply and effectively to drive forward with no disruptions to any affairs of state. * Acting President Goh Kun reassured the people, as the statement addressed to Korean citizens notes: - First, the government will strive to ensure our national security and implement Korea's foreign policy, and that neither will be undermined in any way. - Second, the government will concentrate its efforts on the stable management of the economy and promoting the welfare of the people. - Third, the government will strengthen efforts to maintain public peace and social order to prevent the occurrence of illegal collective activities and the disruption of public order. - Fourth, the government will supervise the April general elections in a completely impartial manner. * Acting President Goh Kun has been doing his utmost to overcome the difficulties in our country through hosting of cabinet meetings and several ministerial meetings on economic affairs, foreign affairs and national security. All of this shows that he has won public confidence. * The financial markets, which were shocked, have stabilized speedily following the impeachment action and almost all foreign investments have remained in the country.

According to the results of a public opinion poll, the Korean people expressed concern toward the parliament and opposition parties. More than 70 percent of the respondents are of the opinion that the impeachment was incorrect and more than 50 percent of them are of the opinion that the opposition parties should be held responsible for the political uncertainty and economic crisis.

Many Koreans held big demonstrations to criticize the National Assembly for a few days following the impeachment of President Roh Moo-hyun. However, they are now recovering from the traumatic political concussion.

KIM SANG-SOOL, Information and Cultural Attache
Embassy of the Republic of Korea, Jakarta