South Korean President Lee Jae‑myung chairs cabinet meeting, tackles election probe and youth inequality

President Lee Jae‑myung hosted a diplomatic dinner at the Blue House, inviting ambassadors from 118 countries and serving a Korean‑style barbecue buffet featuring halal‑certified and vegan options.

He also chaired the 27th cabinet meeting and emergency economic inspection, appearing without a tie and conducting a live‑stream that included real‑time public comments on issues such as fuel prices and egg costs. The session featured a defense‑force promotional video with a beat‑boxing performance.

Lee ordered the joint prosecutor‑police investigation team probing the June 3 local‑election ballot‑shortage scandal to expand its staff, urging a broader inquiry into alleged misconduct. He warned against unfounded claims of widespread election fraud and called for stricter penalties for fake‑news dissemination.

Addressing economic concerns, Lee highlighted the disparity between the booming semiconductor sector and rising asset‑price inequality, saying youth are the “greatest marginalized group.” He directed rapid policies to expand opportunities in employment, housing, entrepreneurship and other life‑stage support for young people.

In a separate video, Lee evaluated the reporting style of senior aides, stressing a preference for forward‑looking plans, alternatives and clear vision, and praising the balanced approaches of his chief secretaries.