South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung has recorded a sharp rise in popularity, with his approval rating reaching 65% as he enters his second month in office, according to a Gallup Korea survey published Friday. The poll, conducted between July 1–3 among 1,001 respondents, reflects widespread public support for the 61-year-old president's early performance. Lee was elected in a snap presidential vote on June 3 following the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was removed from office after a failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2023. Only 23% of those surveyed said they disapproved of Lee's performance. The ruling Democratic Party, led by Lee, has also gained momentum, with its popularity climbing to 46%. Meanwhile, support for the opposition People Power Party (PPP) dropped to 22%, signaling a growing shift in public sentiment. The surge in approval follows Lee's first formal press conference on Thursday, where he outlined a wide-ranging agenda focused on pragmatic diplomacy, inter-Korean dialogue, and economic relief. He highlighted plans to support small businesses by eliminating debt burdens and discussed ongoing talks with the United States over trade tariffs impacting South Korea's economy. In a symbolic move, Lee addressed reporters from the Blue House, which is undergoing renovations to resume its role as the official presidential office after former President Yoon controversially relocated it to the Defense Ministry compound. During the two-hour session, Lee emphasized the need for cross-party cooperation and refrained from directly referencing his predecessor, reinforcing his call for a fresh political start. On the same day, opposition PPP lawmakers staged a partial walkout in parliament before lawmakers approved Kim Min-seok as Lee's nominee for prime minister. Lee also floated the idea of shortening the workweek to 4.5 days, drawing from his personal experience as a former factory worker during his youth. "Initially, we didn't rest at all for a whole month. Then they let us rest once a month, then twice a month... then once a week," he recalled. "Such changes take time." Lee's administration has centered its early messaging on restoring stability, expanding social protections, and reducing political polarization—an agenda that appears to be resonating strongly with the South Korean public. — Agencies
