Kang Hoon-sik, the Chief of Staff to the South Korean president, has called for urgent reforms regarding the presence of books in public libraries that deny the history of 'comfort women' victims of the Japanese military. During a meeting with senior advisors, he recognized the importance of freedom of expression and publishing but asserted that this should not extend to the dissemination of blatantly false information. He has requested that related government departments reassess the selection criteria and guidelines for books in libraries to prevent them from becoming conduits for historical distortion.

The controversy surrounding the inclusion of Kim Byung-hun's book 'Red Wednesday,' which insulted comfort women victims, in over 40 public libraries has sparked significant public outcry. This book allegedly contains content that aligns with claims made by Japan's far-right, denying the Japanese government's acknowledgment and apology for the forced mobilization of comfort women, specifically referencing the Kono Statement and related UN reports. Last year, it was highlighted in parliamentary audits that other similarly controversial books that deny historical truths, such as the forced abduction of comfort women and the 5.18 democratization movement, were also available in public libraries across the country.

In addition to addressing this contentious issue, Kang also reviewed the recent wildfire situation in Gyeongju, which escalated quickly due to dry weather and strong winds. He commended the swift response from agencies, which helped prevent injuries and damage despite the emergency. Kang pointed out that the total number of wildfires this year has increased by 66% compared to the same period last year, indicating a growing risk ahead of the peak wildfire season in March. He insisted on the necessity of implementing effective fire prevention measures and called for inter-agency inspections and strategies to address vulnerable areas in the coming weeks.