# President Lee Orders Crackdown on Illegal Obstruction of Legal Enforcement

The administration targets organized resistance against redevelopment projects and demands public sector reform.

- **Source:** [Kyunghyang](https://www.khan.co.kr)
- **Published:** 2026-11-10
- **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics)
- **Original article:** <https://www.khan.co.kr/article/202611101454001/?utm_source=khan_rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=total_news>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/6e6f7d8e-8db7-40bc-9a99-2bceb10c6baf

## Crackdown on Illegal Resistance

President Lee Jae-myung has ordered a comprehensive audit of nationwide illegal activities that obstruct legal enforcement. Specifically targeting organized resistance in redevelopment projects, the President instructed Prime Minister Han Seung-soo to identify cases where physical force is used to delay court-ordered evictions. This directive aims to restore public trust in law.

## Targeting Specific Redevelopment Disputes

The directive follows the President's recent visit to the Jangwi 10 redevelopment zone. Sarang Jeil Church had previously blocked forced demolition orders, causing significant project delays. President Lee emphasized that such obstruction constitutes special interference with official duties, arguing that allowing such behavior undermines the perceived fairness of the legal system.

## Audit Timeline and Accountability

Prime Minister Han Seung-soo has been tasked with collecting data on all instances of illegal resistance against legal orders. The administration expects a full report within one to two weeks. This systematic review is intended to address the perception that powerful groups can bypass legal requirements through prolonged physical defiance.

## Public Sector Relocation Strategy

The government is pushing to relocate 44 public institutions, including the Broadcasting and Communications Commission, to Sejong. While the administration views this as essential for balanced national development, the National Civil Service Union has protested, labeling the move as hasty and lacking proper consultation with the affected employees and organizational stakeholders.

## Reform Over Organizational Interests

President Lee stressed that individual organizational interests must not hinder broader national reforms. He acknowledged that public sector innovation, particularly regarding industrial restructuring and regional development, may cause discomfort for staff. However, he urged members to prioritize the collective needs of the nation over the specific interests of their respective organizations.

## Communication and Political Strategy

Addressing criticism from the opposition and media, the President advised his cabinet to distinguish between legitimate feedback and irrational arguments. He stated that while valid points deserve gratitude, officials should confidently refute baseless claims. He warned that a purely defensive stance could inadvertently validate the false narratives presented by political opponents.

## Foreign Policy Amid Uncertainty

Regarding the recent U.S. midterm elections, President Lee emphasized the need for consistent principles and flexible responses. He stated that the government will focus its diplomatic efforts on strengthening mutual trust and cooperation with the United States. The administration intends to prioritize practical national interests despite growing global geopolitical uncertainties.

## Implications for Rule of Law

The President's firm stance signals a shift toward stricter enforcement of judicial decisions. By linking redevelopment disputes to broader public sector reforms, the administration is attempting to project an image of decisive governance. The success of these initiatives will likely depend on the government's ability to manage internal resistance and public perception.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.khan.co.kr/article/202611101454001/?utm_source=khan_rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=total_news — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._
