(EDITORIAL from Korea Times on Sept. 17)

President Lee Jae Myung's approval rating has dropped significantly in recent months, from around 60% to the low 30s, according to a recent poll. This decline is a cause for concern, not just because it indicates a shift in public sentiment, but also because strong public confidence is crucial for effective governance. The president's early popularity was largely based on promises of delivering results, but issues such as the stock market, housing, and controversial personnel decisions have eroded that trust.

The president's frequent use of social media and livestreamed Cabinet meetings, while intended to improve communication, have also made him more susceptible to criticism for overstepping in government affairs. The controversy surrounding constitutional reform and potential broader authority for prosecutors has further complicated the situation by raising suspicions about political influence in institutional and legal matters.

The ruling party's handling of personnel controversies, such as the conflicting treatment of nominees, has only added to the public's doubts about fairness and consistency. Allegations against a nominee for justice minister, involving COVID-19 treatments and clinical trials, require thorough investigation, but any blanket defense of the nominee before the facts are clear will not be well-received.

Meanwhile, internal party divisions over prosecutorial reform and the nomination of the head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency have further eroded confidence. These disputes should be addressed through substantive debate rather than inflammatory rhetoric. Recent polls show the ruling party falling behind the opposition, which should serve as a warning sign, but the bigger concern is the overall decline in support for both the president and his party.

The government faces numerous challenges, including housing, rent and tax burdens, security concerns, and sweeping changes to the criminal justice system. To restore public trust, the president must address these issues with greater transparency and consistency. The ruling party must also hold itself to the same standards as it applies to its opponents.

Public trust must be rebuilt through consistent actions, accountability, and restraint, not just rhetoric. The latest polling numbers are a warning rather than a definitive verdict. The president and his party should take these concerns seriously and begin rebuilding trust through thoughtful and accountable decisions.