The former dissident who will assume the presidency in February didnt help investor confidence by telling the Chosun Ilbo newspaper that he hasnt been able to sleep a wink since being briefed on the countrys dire financial situation.
Kim has tried to reassure the countrys traditional ruling elite by securing an amnesty for imprisoned former dictators Chun Doo Hwan and Roh Tae Woo (who had both previously ordered the president-elects execution). Still, financial players remain unconvinced that the president-elect has the discipline to enforce the IMFs harsh medicine.
With the trades unions threatening all-out struggle against IMF-led restructuring, Kims insomnia may well become a feature of his tenure.