South Korea presidential office disclosed detailed spending on special activity funds, marking the first administration to release such data publicly. The move reflects a commitment to transparency and accountability in government finances.
The office explained that the disclosure demonstrates the public’s right to know and follows recent court rulings. Officials released the itemized daily spending on its official website, covering classified diplomatic and national security tasks.
South Korea presidential office reported spending a total of 464.2 million won on special activity funds from mid-July through the end of August. The breakdown included 158 million won for building and maintaining diplomatic, security, and policy networks. Another 98.5 million won went to gauge public sentiment and mediate social conflict.
Additionally, 97 million won supported information collection on policy issues, personnel matters, and public service ethics. The office allocated 52.2 million won to assist vulnerable groups and provide condolence funds. Meanwhile, 58.5 million won promoted national identity and state symbolism.
In the same period, the presidential office spent 978.4 million won on general business operations and 19.1 million won on specific task-related expenses. Daily expenditure records were included for each category, giving the public unprecedented insight into governmental financial practices.
South Korea presidential office emphasized that this transparency sets a new precedent. While previous administrations disclosed only partial information on business operation expenses, this is the first detailed release of both special activity funds and task-related expenditures.
Special activity funds have long attracted public suspicion due to past opacity. The budget faced cuts during the previous administration after lawmakers raised concerns over transparency. The reduction sparked criticism, prompting later restoration following the inauguration of President Lee.
The government also included special activity funds in the second supplementary budget after Lee took office. Lawmakers passed the package, which restored a portion of the funds, reflecting renewed confidence in budget management.
Looking ahead, the proposed national budget for 2026 aims to reinstate the presidential office’s special activity fund to its original pre-cut level. The office intends to continue publishing detailed spending records to reinforce accountability and trust with citizens.
Overall, South Korea presidential office’s disclosure highlights a shift toward more open governance. By providing full transparency on special activity funds, the administration strengthens public confidence and sets a standard for future government practices.
