Lee Jae-myung administration implements broad institutional reforms

One year and three months into the Lee Jae-myung administration, the government has implemented various institutional reforms across multiple sectors. Key completed actions include the integration of KTX and SRT high-speed rail services, which has increased seat supply and reduced average fares by approximately 10%.

In the public sector, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport conducted audits of the Korea Expressway Corporation, leading to measures to exclude retiree organizations from highway rest area operations. The administration has also moved to strengthen civilian control within the Ministry of National Defense by restructuring military personnel management.

In the sports and consumer sectors, the Korea Football Association has seen leadership changes and the launch of an innovation committee, while the Fair Trade Commission has intensified investigations into price collusion within the food ingredient market, specifically regarding starch and starch derivatives.

Despite these administrative shifts, the administration faces criticism regarding its 'pragmatic' governance. Recent public apologies and low approval ratings have prompted debates over whether policies—particularly in real estate and labor—are effectively addressing public needs or merely serving political interests.