President Yoon Suk Yeol has vowed to open a “new era of the middle class” in the second half of his term, saying he will resolve polarization, improve living standards and revitalize the economy.

The president made the pledge Friday during a national prayer breakfast at a hotel in Seoul, adding that he will involve the entire nation in the efforts.

Yoon also pledged to accelerate key reforms concerning the national pension, health care, education and labor, stressing that the four structural reforms are tasks that must be completed as soon as possible to achieve a sustainable society. 

The president said the government will first complete key health care reform tasks by the end of the year, adding that he will overhaul the health care system within his term. 

Launched in 1966, the national prayer breakfast takes place once a year and the president and the first lady are invited to attend.

Yoon previously attended the gathering in December 2022.