President Lee has dismissed demands that he publicly declare he will not seek a second term, according to a report from South Korean outlet 한겨레. The president reportedly pushed back on the request during a meeting with civic groups, questioning why he should have to state that he will not "steal" again.
The exchange took place at a gathering where President Lee met with progressive civic organizations, part of a broader consultation effort. 한겨레 reported the president's remarks on Friday, framing his response as a sharp rebuke of the political pressure he faces over his future plans.
The meeting was one of several the president has held recently with various social partners. According to reports from Newsis and MBC, President Lee has also met with the country's two major labor union confederations. At these sessions, he has emphasized the role of civic groups in his push for "grand reform," saying their contribution is significant.
The Blue House, in its own statement, echoed the theme of cooperation with civil society for a better Republic of Korea. President Lee stressed the need to build a world where fair and transparent systems operate, according to MBC.
The demand for a no-second-term pledge comes amid ongoing speculation about the president's intentions beyond his current mandate. By refusing to commit, Lee leaves the door open for political maneuvering, even as he focuses his public messaging on reform efforts.
Observers will be watching whether the president's refusal to rule out another run becomes a defining issue in the coming months. His meetings with labor and civic groups suggest he is building a coalition for his policy agenda, but the question of his own political future remains unresolved.
