Lee Jae Myung's approval climbs to 40% as poll shows modest gains

Gallup Korea’s latest poll of 1,001 South Korean adults shows President Lee Jae Myung’s approval rating reaching 40%, the highest level since early September. Positive assessments rose by one point week-over-week, while the share of respondents disapproving of his handling of state affairs dropped to 50%, a two-point decline. The ruling Democratic Party’s support climbed to 37%, marking a second consecutive weekly increase, and the opposition People Power Party rose to 28%.

Respondents who approved of Lee most frequently cited his diplomatic efforts, followed by economic and livelihood policies, whereas critics pointed to real-estate, broader economic, and security concerns. The poll also revealed that 34% favor impeaching Supreme Court Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae, with 39% opposing it.