Lee says economic upturn likely in late 2009

By Yoo Cheong-mo
SEOUL, Sept. 13 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Myung-bak said Saturday the South Korean economy will stage a rebound next year, asking his nation to come together in unity to overcome the nation's present economic difficulties.

In a message timed to mark the three-day Chuseok holiday, Korea's autumn harvest celebration, Lee said that now is the time to fundamentally overhaul the Korean economy in order to upgrade its long-term growth potentials.

"I have never forgotten my election campaign pledge to revive the economy. I'm convinced that the economy will show recovery, starting in late 2009," the president said in his message.

"If the entire nation is united and trusts the government, we can overcome any difficulties and revive the economy."

Lee offered his special thanks and consolation to all civil servants who will be
forced to stay on duty throughout Chuseok, namely firefighters, police officers
and soldiers among them.

He also expressed hope that all overseas South Koreans and foreign workers here
would enjoy the Chuseok holidays.

On Chuseok, Koreans traditionally return to their hometowns to perform
traditional rites and to visit the tombs of their immediate ancestors.

Lee himself is spending Chuseok together with his family at the presidential
residence Cheong Wa Dae without any public appearances scheduled.

ycm@yna.co.kr

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