President Lee's approval rating has fallen to its lowest level since taking office, according to a recent poll cited by multiple South Korean outlets. The decline comes as the administration faces mounting pressure over housing policy and public distrust of the police.
The Kyunghyang Shinmun reports that three key variables could influence a potential rebound in the president's support: housing policy, the stance on canceling indictments, and resolving public distrust of the police. The newspaper's analysis suggests these issues are central to the president's political fortunes.
A separate survey conducted by Research View and reported by Munhwa Ilbo put President Lee's approval rating at 36.2 percent, the lowest of his tenure. The same poll showed support among voters in their 30s at just 27.3 percent. Another poll, cited by JoongAng Ilbo, recorded approval at 38.9 percent, also described as a post-inauguration low, while the ruling party's support stood at 43.1 percent.
The polls indicate a notable disconnect between the president's personal ratings and his party's standing. Commentator Kim Eo-jun has referred to this gap as a "decoupling," according to JoongAng Ilbo.
Support for the opposition Rebuilding Korea Party appears particularly critical of the president. A survey reported by v.daum.net found that 73.3 percent of that party's supporters believe President Lee is doing a poor job. When asked about the next general election, 43 percent of respondents favored punishing the ruling power, while 36 percent said they would support it.
The president's first year in office has been marked by these challenges, and the coming months will show whether the administration can address the housing concerns and legal controversies that appear to be driving the decline.
