President Park calls for meritocracy in Korea’s labor market

President Park calls for meritocracy in Korea’s labor market. April. 20, 2016 07:27. by 장택동 기자will71@donga.com. President Park Geun-hye has reaffirmed her commitment to push forward with the labor reforms, saying that the reforms in the labor market will not only help the disabled but also the economy as a whole.

At the luncheon with the national team who took first place for the 7th time at the 2016 International Abilympics, the president said, “A physical disability does not mean lack of other abilities, but it is social prejudice which blocks the abilities.”

"Korea’s labor market should be transformed into a more fair system based on meritocracy, in order to hire more people with disabilities," she said. "The government will work hard to “increase the number of certified workplaces, raise the quota for hiring the disabled, and support businesses employing disabled workers.” The president also urged for consistent implementation of economic boost and restructuring on Monday, to bring necessary reforms to improve economic fundamentals.

Park visited the April 19 National Cemetery commemorating the 56th anniversary of the April 19 Revolution, which was her first schedule outside the presidential office since the elections. She greeted the bereaved families by shaking hands with each one of them, after laying flowers and lighting the incense before the monument.