National Security Adviser Wi Seong-rak emphasized on the 2nd that there is no need for excessive concern regarding the Middle East situation, reiterating President Lee Jae-myung's earlier social media statement.
"As President Lee clearly stated through social media, there is no need to worry excessively," Wi said during a press briefing at the Singapore Press Center while accompanying President Lee on his state visit.
President Lee had posted on social media the previous day: "Although the international situation is unstable, our citizens need not worry at all."
Wi noted that South Korea and Singapore reaffirmed the importance of cooperation as middle-power nations. "The leaders of both countries assessed the impact on global economy including security, energy, and supply chains, and shared the hope that safety and peace in the Middle East region will be restored promptly," he said.
The national security adviser outlined the government's position on the Middle East situation following the Korea-Singapore summit. "The government is thoroughly preparing in all areas including the real economy, finance, military, and intelligence, and the Blue House is also maintaining an emergency response system," Wi explained.
He added that he is continuously monitoring related matters from Singapore and reporting to President Lee.
"The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and related ministries are closely monitoring energy supply conditions including crude oil, and daily inspections are being conducted under the Prime Minister's supervision," Wi said. "The government is devising measures to address various possibilities."
Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik also held a weekly staff meeting at the Blue House on the same day, instructing relevant ministries to "closely monitor the possibility of a prolonged situation and its impact on the Korean economy from multiple angles, and maintain an airtight emergency response system."
In response to the Middle East crisis triggered by U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, all Blue House staff reported to work on what was a substitute holiday for the March 1st Independence Movement Day.
"Make protecting the safety and lives of our citizens staying in the Middle East the top priority," Kang said. "Ensure full preparedness for the safety of overseas nationals as well."