President Lee Jae-myung expressed strong disapproval of South Korea's high suicide rate, calling it a "global disgrace" during a State Council meeting on the 6th. After receiving a report on suicide prevention measures, he emphasized the incompatibility of such a high suicide rate with the nation's current standing, deeming it unacceptable. He directed relevant ministries and local governments to directly oversee suicide prevention efforts, highlighting the tragic nature of individuals ending their lives due to external factors. Recounting personal experiences with mental health challenges, President Lee critiqued the current system's shortcomings, noting its inadequate support for individuals with depression and the administrative hurdles encountered when attempting to provide mandated treatment. He also referenced his own legal battles stemming from actions taken during his tenure as Seongnam Mayor regarding a family member's hospitalization, underscoring the complexities and societal resistance involved in mandatory mental health interventions. Furthermore, he addressed the understaffing of suicide prevention hotlines due to budget constraints, proposing an expansion of personnel.