Lee vows to fight corruption until eve of his term

SEOUL, June 17 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Myung-bak vowed Friday to fight corruption "until the eve of my term," saying the recent uncovering of a series of corruption cases is part of efforts to first identify problems by a tougher standard and then fix them.
"These days, the problem of corruption in our society has been emerging very seriously," Lee said during a lunch meeting with a group of social elders, according to senior presidential spokesman Kim Du-woo. "These problems are not just happening right now, but have existed for many years. They are being dug up by the standard of fair society."
"Fair society" is one of Lee's key policy slogans in the second half of his five-year term set to expire in early 2013. The campaign calls for ending corruption, ensuring equal opportunities and narrowing the growing gap between rich and poor.
Dealing a blow to the drive was a massive corruption scandal involving savings banks suspected of seeking the influence of high-level officials and politicians to avoid punishment for irregularities. At least two former aides to Lee have been suspected of involvement in the scandal.
Earlier this week, the Prime Minister's Office made public corruption cases at various government offices, such as bribe-taking by a senior official who handles real estate policies and government agencies twisting the arms of private firms under their supervision to sponsor large parties and drinking sessions.
The disclosure was believed to be a prelude to a massive clean-up drive.
"If I had no intentions to deal with this sternly, I wouldn't have even started it," Lee was quoted as saying. "I am firmly determined that I will do what I should until the eve of my term."
Lee also told the elders' group that he would make utmost efforts to create jobs, improve relations with North Korea and resolve the standoff over Pyongyang's nuclear programs through dialogue, according to the spokesman.
jschang@yna.co.kr