By Yoon Sojung

President Moon Jae-in on June 20 urged the government to gear up its policy drive for anti-corruption reform so that the people can realize progress and improvement.

In the fourth meeting of the Anti-Corruption Policy Consultation Council at Cheong Wa Dae, he reviewed the overall progress of the anti-corruption drive in the first two years of his administration.

Korea has won global recognition for its will to fight corruption, the president said, adding that the country last year saw its highest ranking of 45th among the 180 countries surveyed in the corruption perception index of Transparency International, up six notches.

Lamenting that illegal practices such as tax evasion and university admission scandals remain, the president said, "We still have a long way to go to meet the needs of the people."

"People are urging us to eradicate all offenses and privilege, both of which are deeply rooted in society, and firmly build the rules of fairness and justice."

President Moon said, "The will to root out corruption should become part of our climate and our culture," adding, "We need to continue a permanent reform effort to set the rules of fairness and justice in our society."

"The innovative, inclusive state we aim to create is where youths can fulfill their dreams without fear and where their dreams can contribute to the growth of the entire community."

arete@korea.kr