Lee Jae-myung Targets Sinophobic Protests: “Self-Destructive Acts That Harm National Interest and Dignity Must Be Expelled”

President Lee Jae-myung, addressing recent Sinophobic demonstrations organized by some far-right groups, stated:

“Groundless rumors and hate speech targeting specific nations and peoples are being indiscriminately spread, and racist rallies continue to take place.”

He ordered the government to devise measures to root out such behavior.

At a senior aides’ meeting held at the presidential office in Yongsan on the 2nd, President Lee stressed:

“These uncultured, vulgar acts that damage our national dignity can never be left unchecked.”

He continued by pointing to the economic impact of Chinese tourism:

“With the temporary visa-free entry program for Chinese group tourists, business in Myeong-dong is already booming. At a time when we should be grateful and welcoming, how could we instead hurl insults, spread hate and hostility, or cause disturbances?”

President Lee further emphasized the economic stakes:

“A single tourist can spend several million won per visit. If 10 million more come, the effect is equivalent to a massive export boost. But tell me, would citizens of any country want to shop and travel in a nation that slanders them for no reason?”

He concluded:

“These utterly harmful, self-destructive acts that undermine our national interest and image must be completely eliminated. Relevant ministries should thoroughly crack down on agitational acts that threaten the safety of foreign tourists and swiftly prepare special measures to eradicate racial hatred.”

The President also commented on the stock market milestone, noting that the KOSPI index surpassed 3,500 points for the first time in history that day:

“I don’t think this upward trend will easily change. Our people are regaining hope and the determination to start anew. Abnormalities are steadily being corrected, and the KOSPI’s rise reflects this strength.”