Lee calls for advanced, transparent judicial services

By Yoo Cheong-mo
SEOUL, Sept. 26 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Myung-bak said on Friday that judicial transparency and strict law enforcement are the keys to the nation's eventual rise to the ranks of advanced countries.

"Korea now faces its last chance to enter the ranks of advanced countries. The
foremost prerequisite for becoming an advanced nation is to observe law and
order," Lee said at a ceremony marking the 60th founding anniversary of Korea's
judicature.
"The government will strive to enhance transparency of laws and systems, and the
(judicial) authorities must be exercised in accordance with legal procedures and
principles. Without law and principles, the people's life and property, as well
as social safety, cannot be guaranteed," said the president.
Lee then stressed that the provision of advanced judiciary services is also
closely linked to his government's efforts to attract more investments from
foreign enterprises and revive the economy.
On Thursday, Lee said at a state meeting on the nation's competitiveness that his
government is firmly determined to strengthen law enforcement efforts to help
pave the ground for long-term foreign investments in South Korea.
At Lee's instruction, the government is now gearing up to crack down on
corruption by civil servants, illegal outdoor rallies, politically motivated
labor strikes, illegally hired foreign workers and cyberspace slandering, among
other issues.
ycm@yna.co.kr
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