South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol marked his second anniversary in office with a keynote address and press conference on Thursday. It was the first time he held a press conference in 21 months. Yoon acknowledged shortcomings in his administration’s ability to improve citizens’ livelihoods and pledged to focus on economic growth, job creation and citizen support.

Yoon defended his administration’s economic policies, including easing real estate regulations and taxes, as necessary to restore market principles. He also addressed pending issues such as pension reform, medical reform and tax policies. Regarding foreign affairs, Yoon reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and managing relations with Japan and Russia based on national interests.