South Korea leader rules out term extension

South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung has firmly rejected the idea of extending his constitutionally limited one-term presidency, according to a spokesman. Critics have pointed out that a second term would prolong five criminal trials, including bribery allegations involving a company's illicit transfer of $8 million to North Korea.

The five-year presidential term was instituted in 1987 to prevent prolonged presidential power concentration. In August, Lee expressed a preference for a four-year term with some powers transferred to parliament. National Assembly Speaker Cho Jeong-sik suggested in July that voters should decide on a possible constitutional amendment.

Addressing South Koreans during a state visit to France, Lee reiterated that his term is constitutionally limited. Presidential secretary Seong Ghi-hong interpreted Lee's remarks as ruling out any attempt to seek re-election through a constitutional amendment. The opposition People Power Party has accused Lee and his allies of considering such an amendment.

Constitutional amendments allowing multiple presidential terms have been proposed since the 1987 revision, but have consistently failed due to political opposition. Lee's remarks coincide with a decline in his approval rating to its lowest point since his inauguration, with a Gallup Korea poll showing 40% support.