President Roh Moo-hyun's New Year Message to the Nation Jan. 1, 2005 Fellow Koreans, The 2005 New Year has dawned. I wish every citizen of the country happiness and abundant blessings throughout the year. During the year we have just rung out, my administration worked hard with principle and consistency. However, we have sent the old year leaving much to be desired in many areas, falling short of helping solve your difficulties satisfactorily. Particularly, I feel regret for not being able to solve the many hardships faced in everyday life. Citizens, We now know what causes our national economic difficulties. Among other tasks, we cannot ignore any further the gap existing between the big and small businesses, between the high technology and traditional industries, between regular and temporary jobs, between the Seoul and provincial regions, and between high and low-income families. In solving these problems, there cannot be any differing voices between those in the ruling and opposition camps, between progressives and conservatives, and between advocates for growth and balanced distribution. Cooperation is imperative in promoting coexistence and prosperity of the community of the Republic as a nation. Big businesses and high-tech industries equipped with competitive strength should be further encouraged to stand in the forefront of national progress. Small and medium-size businesses and low-income families who have been lagging behind should be given a substantial boost so that they will be able to join the progress as well. In short, the nation needs growth in all segments of society. The big businesses and the authorities of the Seoul region should render support to small businesses and provincial authorities respectively; the regular-job holders and the middle and upper income families should encourage temporary workers and low-income families respectively. Now is the time we should all live up to the spirit of coexistence and common solidarity while practicing concessions and compromise. The nation should make the year 2005 a good opportunity to live up to these virtues. I have a firm belief in our national resolve that shines especially bright when the going is tough. My administration and I, personally, will make the best effort possible. Let us resume our march with confidence and hope. Let us make 2005 a year that will see the national economy make another giant step forward. Again, I wish you all a very happy New Year.