Lee's approval rating hits record low of 42%: poll

President Lee Jae Myung's approval rating plummeted to an all-time low of 42%, according to a Gallup Korea poll released on Friday. The survey, conducted between Tuesday and Thursday, polled 1,001 individuals aged 18 and above. This marked a decline of 3 percentage points from the previous week, setting a new record low since Lee assumed office in June of the prior year. The disapproval rating surged to 50%, marking an increase of 5 percentage points from the prior week.

Diplomacy emerged as the primary factor contributing to the favorable assessment, cited by 16% of respondents. The economy and people's livelihoods followed closely, garnering support from 11% of those polled. Communication skills were also deemed positive by 10% of respondents.

However, the negative assessment of Lee's performance was primarily driven by discontent with his real estate policies, mentioned by 27% of respondents. Prosecution reform, aimed at limiting prosecutors' direct investigative powers, was cited by 7% of those who disapproved. The remaining reasons for dissatisfaction included ethical issues.