The president has ruled out even considering to extend his constitutionally-capped one term in office, a spokesman said, after the leader and some allies had floated a reform.
President Lee Jae-myung’s critics noted a second term would extend the suspension of five criminal trials against him, including on bribery charges linked to a firm’s alleged illicit transfer of US$8mil (RM32.5mil) to North Korea.
South Korea adopted its current single five-year presidential term in 1987 as the country transitioned from decades of authoritarian rule, in part to prevent the prolonged concentration of power.
Lee said on social media in August that he favoured a four-year presidency allowing for more than one term, while shifting some presidential powers to parliament.
National Assembly Speaker Cho Jeong-sik, formerly affiliated with Lee’s Democratic Party, said in July that voters should decide whether an incumbent president could seek another term under a revised constitution.
Speaking to South Koreans in Paris on Wednesday, Lee noted that he has just one term.
“My term is clearly limited under the constitution, so the earlier we start, the longer we can enjoy the benefits,” Lee said.
Since Cho’s remarks, the opposition People Power Party has accused Lee and his allies of considering an amendment that could allow him to remain in office.
Lee’s remarks come as his approval rating has fallen to its lowest level since he took office, with a Gallup Korea poll released last week putting it at 40%. — AFP
