(URGENT) Lee says will never be dispatch of troops that might lead to involvement in overseas conflict

President Lee Jae Myung addressed the nation on Friday, reiterating South Korea's commitment to safeguarding its citizens and national interests in the Strait of Hormuz, while emphasizing that there would be no troop dispatches leading to overseas conflicts. He reiterated that the country must engage in the minimum necessary activities to protect nationals and maintain the transportation route for crude oil in the region, a role undertaken by the Cheonghae military unit.

The president also clarified that he has no intention of seeking re-election through constitutional revision, stating that his reelection is impossible under the current Constitution. This marks the president's seventh press conference since his June 2025 inauguration, though it is rare, as most previous press conferences occurred on special occasions.

The event was called for after Lee's approval ratings fell to the lowest levels in recent weeks, particularly among younger voters.