# South Korea: President Lee's approval hits record lows

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/south-koreas-june-3-local-elections-draw-intensified-campaigns-legal-probes-and-creative-voter-outre
> Updated: 2026-09-11T01:23:00.000Z. Sources: 128. Developments: 244.

President Lee Jae-myung’s public approval continues to decline, reaching new lows. Recent Gallup Korea data reported a 42% approval rating and a record 50% disapproval rate, with real estate policy cited by 27% of respondents as a primary driver of dissatisfaction. Other concerns include economic issues and the reduction of prosecutorial powers. By late August, Realmeter polling indicated a seventh consecutive week of decline, with approval falling to 38.9%. Following a recent cabinet reshuffle, the downward trend accelerated. As of early September, approval dropped to 37.4%, while negative sentiment reached 59.5%. This slump is attributed to intense scrutiny over new ministerial appointments, specifically Kim Seung-won for Minister of Justice, who faces allegations regarding COVID-19 clinical trial approvals, and Yong Hye-in for Minister of Gender Equality and Family, who is embroiled in controversies regarding dual roles and affiliations. By September 8, Hangil Research reported a further drop in approval to 36.4%, with negative evaluations rising to 62.1%. Notably, negative sentiment in Seoul reached 69.3%. Respondents, particularly in their 20s and 30s, expressed belief that the administration has not implemented any successful policies, citing real estate and prosecutorial reforms as major failures. By mid-September, Media Tomato reported that approximately 28.4% of previous supporters no longer support the President, with overall approval in the 30% range and negative evaluations at 58.8%. Opposition leaders from the People Power Party have criticized the management of agricultural land and called for a special prosecutor to investigate alleged police misconduct in Jeju. Gallup Korea later reported a record low approval rating of 38%, with 51% negative sentiment. Critics have suggested that recent judicial appointments may be intended to shield the President from ongoing judicial risks.

## Claims

- If the conviction is upheld on appeal, the People Power Party must return about 397 billion won of reimbursed campaign expenses to the National Election Commission. (disputed by 17 sources)
- President Lee Jae-myung's job approval rating dropped to 38.9%, marking the first time it has entered the 30% range since his inauguration. (disputed by 8 sources)
- Negative evaluations of the President's performance rose to 58.7%. (disputed by 8 sources)
- The amendment removes prosecutors' investigative and supplementary investigation rights. (disputed by 7 sources)
- If upheld, the People Power Party must return about 39.7 billion won in state campaign reimbursements. (disputed by 5 sources)
- The amendment removes the prosecutor's investigative authority and abolishes the Prosecutor's Office. (disputed by 5 sources)
- President Lee Jae Myung's approval rating fell to 40.2 percent. (disputed by 5 sources)
- Disapproval of President Lee Jae Myung's performance reached 56.9 percent. (disputed by 5 sources)
- The court said Yoon's false statements could have affected voters' fair judgment. (corroborated by 23 sources)
- Yoon Suk-yeol was convicted of violating South Korea's public election law by making false statements during the 2022 presidential campaign. (corroborated by 21 sources)
- Yoon Suk‑yeol plans to appeal the conviction. (corroborated by 17 sources)
- Yoon Suk‑yeol was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, suspended for three years. (corroborated by 17 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-11: South Korea President Lee's approval rating hits record low of 38%

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's approval rating hit a record low of 38%, driven by dissatisfaction with real estate policies and controversial cabinet appointments.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-president-lees-approval-hits-record-low

### 2026-09-08: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung faces declining approval

President Lee Jae-myung faces declining approval ratings amid intense political conflict over real estate policy, prosecution reform, and police investigative authority in South Korea.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-president-lee-jae-myung-faces-low-approval-ratings

### 2026-09-06: President Lee Jae-myung's approval rating hits new low

President Lee Jae-myung’s approval rating has fallen to a new low amid controversies surrounding recent cabinet appointments and ministerial nominees.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/president-lee-jae-myungs-approval-rating-hits-new-low

### 2026-08-30: South Korea President Lee Jae-myung's approval hits 38.9%

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's approval rating fell to 38.9%, his lowest since inauguration, amid real estate concerns and judicial controversies. Negative evaluations reached 58.7%.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/president-lee-jae-myungs-approval-rating-hits-389

### 2026-08-28: President Lee Jae-myung's approval rating hits record low

President Lee Jae-myung's approval rating has hit record lows, dropping to 42% in recent polls, driven largely by dissatisfaction with real estate policies and economic concerns.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/president-lee-jae-myungs-approval-rating-hits-record-low

### 2026-08-23: South Korea's President Lee calls for police reform body

President Lee Jae Myung has ordered the consideration of a new government body for police reform following misconduct scandals, while his approval rating hit a record low of 40.2 percent.

23 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-president-lee-jae-myung-hits-new-approval-low

### 2026-08-23: Democratic Party of Korea faces internal rift over leadership and presidential style

Internal friction grows in South Korea's Democratic Party as Professor Baek Nak-chung and critic Rhyu Si-min issue sharp assessments of the recent convention and President Lee Jae-myung’s leadership.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/democratic-party-of-korea-faces-internal-rift-over-leadership-and-presidential-style

### 2026-08-17: People Power Party opposes constitutional amendment talks

South Korea's People Power Party opposes constitutional amendment talks unless President Lee Jae-myung guarantees he will not seek re-election and addresses his ongoing criminal trials.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/people-power-party-opposes-constitutional-amendment-talks

### 2026-08-17: Kim Min-seok elected leader of Democratic Party of Korea

Kim Min-seok has been elected leader of the Democratic Party of Korea. He is focusing on party unity and strengthening cooperation with the presidential office through his 'one-team' approach.

15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kim-min-seok-elected-leader-of-democratic-party-of-korea-2

### 2026-08-17: South Korea special prosecutor to probe National Election Commission

A special prosecutor is set to be appointed to investigate the National Election Commission regarding ballot shortages, statistics manipulation, and corruption allegations following the June 3 local elections.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-special-prosecutor-to-probe-national-election-commission

### 2026-08-15: Democratic Party of Korea leadership race: Kim Min-seok leads ahead of final vote

Kim Min-seok leads the Democratic Party of Korea leadership race with 49.91% of the vote. The final leadership and Supreme Council results will be decided on August 17 via combined delegate and public polls.

20 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kim-min-seok-extends-lead-in-democratic-party-leadership-race

### 2026-08-15: People Power Party disputes President Lee's golf meetings amid constitutional reform push

South Korea's People Power Party is criticizing senior lawmakers for attending golf meetings with President Lee Jae-myung, alleging the meetings aim to influence support for constitutional amendments.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/people-power-party-disputes-president-lees-golf-meetings-amid-constitutional-reform-push

### 2026-08-15: President Lee Jae-myung's approval hits record low of 43.0%

President Lee Jae-myung's approval rating has hit a record low of 43.0% amid real estate policy controversies, while debates intensify over constitutional reforms to the presidential term.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/president-lee-jae-myung-marks-liberation-day-with-japan-diplomacy-and-peace-vision

### 2026-08-13: Democratic Party of Korea faces leadership race tensions and expulsion resolution

The Democratic Party of Korea faces leadership election tensions in the Honam region and a push to expel lawmaker Lee Jin-sook over controversial remarks regarding the 5·18 Gwangju Democratization Movement.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lee-jin-sook-forum-on-518-movement-sparks-political-outcry

### 2026-08-13: People Power Party criticizes tax reforms and election commission

South Korea's People Power Party is demanding a replacement of economic leadership and criticizing tax reforms and the National Election Commission's dismissal of election appeals.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/people-power-party-criticizes-tax-reforms-and-election-commission

### 2026-08-13: South Korean President Lee's approval hits record low

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's approval rating has dropped to 44%, marking a 'dead cross' as disapproval hits 46%. Real estate policy and low support among youth are key factors.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-president-lee-jae-myung-faces-record-low-approval-rating

### 2026-08-12: National Election Commission dismisses election challenges amid ongoing investigations

South Korea's National Election Commission dismissed numerous election challenges, citing no impact on results, while a joint investigation team accelerates probes into ballot shortages and irregularities.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/national-election-commission-dismisses-election-challenges-amid-ongoing-investigations

### 2026-08-10: Democratic Party leadership candidates clash ahead of August convention

Democratic Party leadership candidates Kim Min-seok, Jung Chung-rae, and Song Young-gil are locked in intense competition as the August 17 convention approaches, amid heated debates and key regional voting.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/democratic-party-of-korea-leadership-race-intensifies-in-honam

### 2026-08-10: South Korea investigates voter data discrepancies in local elections

South Korean authorities are investigating voter data discrepancies in recent local elections, where thousands of recorded votes showed inconsistencies between closing numbers and final tallies.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-investigates-voter-data-discrepancies-in-local-elections

### 2026-08-10: South Korea's People Power Party faces internal divisions

South Korea's People Power Party faces internal conflict over election fraud allegations, leadership disputes, and legal controversies involving high-profile figures.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/people-power-party-split-over-election-fraud-allegations

### 2026-08-09: South Korean lawmaker alleges NEC voter count manipulation

South Korean lawmaker Joo Jin-woo has alleged that the National Election Commission prematurely entered voter counts in 117 polling stations across three recent elections, calling for a special investigation.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-lawmaker-alleges-nec-voter-count-manipulation

### 2026-08-08: Democratic Party of Korea leadership race enters critical phase

Kim Min-seok holds a narrow 1.48% cumulative lead over Jung Chung-rae in the Democratic Party of Korea's leadership race following the second week of regional primaries.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kim-min-seok-leads-south-koreas-democratic-party-primary-race

### 2026-08-08: President Lee Jae Myung's approval rating hits record low

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's approval rating fell to a record low of 43.3%, driven by economic concerns, tax controversies, and legislative debates.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-president-lee-jae-myungs-approval-rating-hits-new-low

### 2026-08-06: President Lee announces reforms to fix 'marriage penalties' and review ISA plans

President Lee Jae-myung announced plans to fix 22 'marriage penalties' in housing and loans, while also ordering a full review of contested ISA tax reforms and stock price manipulation prevention laws.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/joint-probe-raids-korean-election-commissions-over-voterate-fraud

### 2026-08-04: South Korea Democratic Party primary faces extra‑vote controversy and turnout dip

South Korea’s Democratic Party primary is plagued by an extra‑vote dispute and faction‑biased banners, while the first use of a 1‑person‑1‑vote system sees turnout fall in key regions.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-democratic-party-primary-faces-extravote-controversy-and-turnout-dip

### 2026-08-02: South Korea Democratic Party leadership race sees shift in regional support

Democratic Party candidates Kim Yong and Lee Seong‑yun discuss shifting Honam support for leader Kim Min‑seok and reject internal “anti‑Lee Jae‑myung” labels, emphasizing reform commitments.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-democratic-party-leadership-race-sees-shift-in-regional-support

### 2026-08-02: Jang Dong-hyuk drives People Power Party reform and urges presidential veto on investigation law

People Power Party chief Jang Dong-hyuk plans a member‑focused party reform and, at a Blue House rally, urges the president to veto a bill ending the supplementary investigation right, warning of public unrest.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jang-dong-hyuk-drives-people-power-party-reform-and-urges-presidential-veto-on-investigation-law

### 2026-08-02: South Korea's Democratic Party confronts parliamentary reform and Gwangju chair race

South Korea's ruling People Power Party and opposition Democratic Party clash over National Assembly reforms, while the Democratic Party prepares a three‑candidate Gwangju city chair election on May 15.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-democratic-party-confronts-parliamentary-reform-and-gwangju-chair-race

### 2026-08-02: DPK leadership race intensifies after southeastern primary win

Former DPK chair Jung Chung‑rae won the southeastern primary with 46.7% over Kim Min‑seok, after a narrow central‑region loss, as the party’s leadership race heats up ahead of the Aug 17 convention.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dpk-leadership-race-intensifies-after-southeastern-primary-win

### 2026-08-02: South Korea passes criminal procedure law revamping prosecutor powers

South Korea's National Assembly passed a criminal procedure law amendment removing prosecutors' investigative powers, creating new agencies, and set to take effect Oct 2, prompting political debate and police‑c

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-democratic-party-primary-erupts-with-ethics-lawsuits

### 2026-08-01: South Korean President Lee Jae‑myung's approval falls to 45.9%

President Lee Jae‑myung’s approval fell to 45.9% in a late‑July Realmeter poll, the lowest since his inauguration, amid stock‑market turmoil and re‑election amendment debate; disapproval rose to 50.5% and party

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-lee-jaemyung-sees-approval-plunge-to-mid50s-in-latest-polls

### 2026-08-01: Kwon Young-jin refuses to quit party amid disciplinary probe over collar‑grab incident

People Power Party lawmaker Kwon Young‑jin, who grabbed leader Jeong Jeom‑sik's collar during a committee‑seat protest, refused to resign, apologized, and will accept any fair disciplinary action by the party's

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kwon-young-jin-refuses-to-quit-party-amid-disciplinary-probe-over-collargrab-incident

### 2026-07-31: South Korea's People Power Party faces internal power clash over ethics committee and filibuster slot

People Power Party officials warn that internal factional fights over a filibuster slot for Han Dong‑hoon and ethics committee appointments expose politicisation and call for neutral party governance.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-people-power-party-faces-internal-power-clash-over-ethics-committee-and-filibuster-slot

### 2026-07-30: South Korea’s Central Election Commission under investigation for vote‑count falsification

South Korea’s Central Election Commission is being investigated after zero‑voter entries appeared at dozens of polling stations during the June 3 local elections, with officials alleged to have used an Excel “f

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-central-election-commission-under-investigation-for-votecount-falsification

### 2026-07-28: Han Dong-hoon Leads Parliamentary Push to Remove Prosecutors' Supplementary Investigation Authority

Han Dong-hoon led a parliamentary debate to scrap prosecutors' supplementary investigation powers, condemning the Democratic Party's push for the amendment, while veteran lawmaker Jo Kyung‑tae pledged filibust‑

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/han-dong-hoon-leads-parliamentary-push-to-remove-prosecutors-supplementary-investigation-authority

### 2026-07-27: South Korea's Democratic Party leadership race intensifies amid prosecution reform fight

Jeong Cheong‑rae leads a poll for Democratic Party leader, Kim Min‑seok leads party members; the party seeks to abolish supplementary investigation rights, create a Serious Crime Investigation Department, and a

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/han-byung-do-denounces-presidential-reelection-push-and-urges-action-on-shincheonji-party-infiltrati

### 2026-07-27: South Korea's joint investigation unit criticised over Shincheonji‑Democratic Party probe

South Korea's joint investigation unit, amid criticism from lawmaker Choi Min‑hee, says Shincheonji leaders urged members to join the Democratic Party but denies organized coercion, focusing probes before the 6

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-joint-investigation-unit-criticised-over-shincheonjidemocratic-party-probe

### 2026-07-26: South Korean President Lee Jae‑myung's approval rating slips to 46.3%

President Lee Jae‑myung's approval rating fell to 46.3% (down 2.1 pp) as disapproval rose to 49.5%, amid housing‑policy backlash; Democratic Party holds 41.3% support versus People Power's 40.6%.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-president-lee-jaemyungs-approval-rating-slips-to-463

### 2026-07-26: South Korea election commission faces probe over voter count and turnout manipulation

South Korea’s election commission is under investigation after 72 voter‑count corrections and alleged false turnout entries were found on election day, with probes now expanding nationwide.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-election-commission-faces-probe-over-voter-count-and-turnout-manipulation

### 2026-07-26: Yoon Suk-yeol convicted, suspended sentence may cost PPP 397 bn won

Yoon Suk-yeol was convicted of election‑law false statements, receiving an 18‑month suspended sentence; the ruling may force his People Power Party to repay about 397 bn won in campaign funds if upheld.

33 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-former-president-yoon-suk-yeol-receives-suspended-jail-term

### 2026-07-25: Kwon Young‑jin’s neck‑grab ignites disciplinary saga in South Korea’s ruling party

Kwon Young‑jin’s neck‑grab of the People Power Party leader sparked an apology, police complaint and calls for his resignation, prompting the party’s ethics committee to open disciplinary proceedings.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jang-donghyuk-demands-special-probe-into-alleged-voterate-manipulation-at-south-korean-local-electio

### 2026-07-25: Seoul Police Chief Says Olympic Park Protest Over Ballot Shortage Declines

Seoul police chief reports that the Olympic Park handball arena protest over the June 3 ballot‑paper shortage has shrunk, with 113 illegal acts logged, 46 resolved and three suspects detained.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/seoul-police-chief-says-olympic-park-protest-over-ballot-shortage-declines

### 2026-07-25: Hong Jun-pyo criticizes People Power Party over Shincheonji involvement

Hong Jun-pyo slammed the People Power Party for previously covering up Shincheonji’s role in party elections and now attacking the Democrats for alleged church‑state violations, demanding investigations and exp

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hong-jun-pyo-criticizes-people-power-party-over-shincheonji-involvement

### 2026-07-24: South Korea election commission probe finds vote‑rate falsification in Gyeonggi and Chungcheong regions

South Korea’s election commission is under joint investigation for falsifying vote‑rate data in Gyeonggi and Chungcheong, with officials charged over record‑tampering; impacts on results remain unproven.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-election-commission-probe-finds-voterate-falsification-in-gyeonggi-and-chungcheong-regio

### 2026-07-23: South Korea’s National Assembly grapples with contentious committee assignments

South Korea’s newly formed National Assembly finished its composition after 54 days, but faces fierce disputes over committee assignments, including a physical clash among People Power Party members over the “f

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-national-assembly-grapples-with-contentious-committee-assignments

### 2026-07-22: South Korea election commission raided over alleged vote‑count tampering

South Korean prosecutors raided the election commission, uncovering evidence that officials falsified vote‑count data to hide ballot‑shortage errors, prompting calls for a commission overhaul and a special‑proc

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-election-officials-subjected-to-ballot-recount-and-raids-over-alleged-voterate-falsifica

### 2026-07-22: South Korea's People Power Party elects committee chairs amid ethics dispute and election fraud probe

South Korea's ruling People Power Party named six committee chairs, faced internal ethics disputes over disciplinary rules, while a joint probe investigates alleged vote‑turnout falsifications and overseas trip

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-election-oversight-committee-says-server-data-could-be-released-after-verification-scope

### 2026-07-22: South Korea's Democratic Party faces deep factional split ahead of 8·17 leadership contest

South Korea's Democratic Party sees a fierce leadership fight, Shincheonji intrusion claims, and a push to abolish the supplementary investigation authority ahead of the 8·17 convention.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-democratic-party-faces-internal-clash-over-shincheonji-involvement-allegations

### 2026-07-21: South Korea Democratic Party cuts deposits for 8·17 leadership race

South Korea's Democratic Party reduced leadership candidate deposits and extended a 50% discount to youth and disabled candidates, while internal rivals Kim Min‑seok and Jeong Cheong‑rae clash over Shincheonji,

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-democratic-party-cuts-deposits-for-817-leadership-race

### 2026-07-21: South Korean lawmaker Park Ji-won rebukes writer Yu Si-min over criticism of President Lee Jae-myung

Lawyer Park Ji-won told writer Yu Si-min to cease “cursed language” against President Lee Jae‑myung, saying repeated criticism aids internal conflict factions.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-lawmaker-park-ji-won-rebukes-writer-yu-si-min-over-criticism-of-president-lee-jae-myung

### 2026-07-20: South Korea ballot shortage leaves up to 91 voters unable to cast votes

CCTV checks reveal up to 91 South Korean voters missed voting on June 3 due to ballot shortages; lawmakers call for an independent audit committee and election‑commission reforms.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-ballot-shortage-leaves-up-to-91-voters-unable-to-cast-votes

### 2026-07-20: Seoul protester A faces court hearing over Olympic Park entry blockade

A 30‑year‑old woman who blocked entry at Seoul’s Olympic Park during election counting faces a pre‑trial detention hearing, alongside others charged with related offenses.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/seoul-protester-a-faces-court-hearing-over-olympic-park-entry-blockade

### 2026-07-20: South Korea police raid anti-corruption commission and election watchdog over alleged misconduct

South Korean police raided the anti‑corruption commission over a former first‑lady handbag case and the election watchdog over suspected embezzlement by its ex‑chair, probing alleged abuse of power and fund mis

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-police-raid-anti-corruption-commission-and-election-watchdog-over-alleged-misconduct

### 2026-07-20: South Korea raids former election chief Noh Tae‑ak over foreign‑trip fund misuse

South Korea’s former election commission chief Noh Tae‑ak was raided by prosecutors over alleged misuse of public funds for undisclosed foreign trips with his spouse, amid a wider probe into election‑management

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-raids-former-election-chief-noh-taeak-over-foreigntrip-fund-misuse

### 2026-07-19: Former Daegu Mayor Hong Jun-pyo opposes abolition of prosecutors' supplementary investigation authority

Hong Jun-pyo blames Yoon and Han for the push to end prosecutors' supplementary investigation power, saying it would harm crime‑fighting and warning against partisan “flower‑show” tactics.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/former-daegu-mayor-hong-jun-pyo-opposes-abolition-of-prosecutors-supplementary-investigation-authori

### 2026-07-19: South Korea's People Power Party chief Jang Dong-hyuk attacks government over security, economy and ETF fallout

PPP leader Jang Dong-hyuk slammed the Lee administration over alliance security, a risky ETF, and a controversial mortgage deal, while PPP lawmakers discussed investigation reforms, highlighting internal party裂

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-people-power-party-chief-jang-donghyuk-calls-for-policy-chiefs-removal-and-leads-antigo

### 2026-07-19: People Power Party leader Jang Dong‑hyuk defends outside protests amid party criticism

PPP leader Jang Dong‑hyuk defended his continued protests over ballot‑paper shortages, rejecting claims they serve his base, as party members criticize his outside‑politics tactics.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/people-power-party-leader-jang-donghyuk-defends-outside-protests-amid-party-criticism

### 2026-07-19: South Korea's National Assembly deadlock over special investigation extension

South Korea’s parliament is stalled as the ruling Democrats push a bill to extend the 2nd comprehensive special investigation, while the opposition People Power Party threatens a filibuster and has boycotted re

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-parliament-deadlock-stalls-committee-chairs-and-special-prosecutor-bill

### 2026-07-19: South Korea Democratic Party launches leadership primaries

South Korea's Democratic Party started its July 21‑23 pre‑primary, narrowing five leadership hopefuls to three and reducing fourteen top‑committee candidates to eight, amid factional rivalries and upcoming TV‑h

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-democratic-party-launches-leadership-primaries

### 2026-07-19: Jang Dong-hyuk mobilises South Korean youth over election commission reforms

People Power Party chief Jang Dong-hyuk toured South Korea urging youth to protect voting rights and demand a new election, while also condemning President Lee’s alleged party interference.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jang-dong-hyuk-mobilises-south-korean-youth-over-election-commission-reforms

### 2026-07-19: South Korea's Democratic Party leadership race fuels intra‑party clash

South Korea’s Democratic Party leadership race sparks internal faction fights and a parliamentary deadlock as the opposition filibusters a special‑prosecutor law extension, while polls show the party’s support—

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-ruling-democratic-party-faces-internal-clash-ahead-of-817-leadership-convention

### 2026-07-18: South Korea debates overhaul of prosecutors’ supplementary investigation power and police emergency arrests

South Korea’s rise in prosecutor‑requested supplementary investigations and a draft law letting police make emergency arrests without prosecutor approval have sparked public debate, a cancelled TV panel and law

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-mps-cancel-debate-on-prosecutors-investigation-powers

### 2026-07-16: Seoul district heads and senior officials appointed in local government reshuffle

Five Democratic Party district heads with the surname 류/유 were elected in Seoul, and Jongno‑gu named new senior officials including So Myung‑hoon and Son Yeon‑suk.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/seoul-district-heads-and-senior-officials-appointed-in-local-government-reshuffle

### 2026-07-16: Seoul police seek detention for woman who blocked Olympic Park voting venue

Seoul police applied a detention warrant for a 30‑year‑old woman, nicknamed “Ol Dalk”, who blocked a handball arena used as a polling site during the June 3 elections; related illegal‑search and trespassing案件同時

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/seoul-police-seek-detention-for-woman-who-blocked-olympic-park-voting-venue

### 2026-07-15: South Korean President Lee Jae‑myung Criticized by Writer Yoo Si‑min Ahead of Party Convention

Yoo Si‑min sharply criticised President Lee Jae‑myung’s prosecutorial reform, sparking intra‑party conflict as South Korea’s Democratic Party heads to its August 17 leadership convention.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-president-lee-jaemyung-criticized-by-writer-yoo-simin-ahead-of-party-convention

### 2026-07-15: South Korea's Democratic Party clears Song Yeong-gil and Kim Yong to run

South Korea's Democratic Party approved an exception for Song Yeong-gil and Kim Yong, letting them run despite missing membership and dues requirements, ending a factional deadlock ahead of the party’s 8‑17大会.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kim-min-seok-presents-democratic-partys-fourpillar-reform-plan-and-sets-merger-terms-with-jokuk-inno

### 2026-07-15: Former South Korean President Yoon Seok-youl Appeals Two-Year Prison Sentence for Free Polls

Former President Yoon Seok-youl and broker Myeong Tae-kyun, convicted for receiving free opinion polls, have appealed their sentences, claiming factual and legal errors.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/former-south-korean-president-yoon-seok-youl-appeals-two-year-prison-sentence-for-free-polls

### 2026-07-12: Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Sentenced to Two Years in Prison

Former President Yoon Suk Yeol was sentenced to two years for illegally receiving free opinion polls worth 270 million won, part of broader post‑impeachment convictions.

25 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-democratic-party-stalls-on-voting-reform-as-human-rights-commission-staff-protest-recor

### 2026-07-12: Mayor Park Seung-won joins South Korea Democratic Party supreme council race

Mayor Park Seung-won entered South Korea's Democratic Party supreme council race, emphasizing decentralisation; other party leaders also outlined policy goals at the KDLC meeting.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mayor-park-seung-won-joins-south-korea-democratic-party-supreme-council-race

### 2026-07-12: Lee Jun-seok alleges People Power Party involvement in Jeong Ihan staged attack scandal

Lee Jun-seok accuses People Power Party of orchestrating Jeong Ihan's staged attack, intensifying intra‑conservative conflict ahead of elections.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-major-parties-debate-memberdriven-control-over-leadership-and-public-funding

### 2026-07-12: South Korea election commission to re‑verify 2.5 million voting papers

South Korea's election commission will manually re‑examine 2.47 million Songpa voting papers, video the process and allow party observers, while a parliamentary committee debates the timetable and a special‑pro

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-election-commission-to-reverify-25-million-voting-papers

### 2026-07-11: Jang Dong-hyuk pledges member‑centered party as People Power support slips

PPP leader Jang Dong‑hyuk says the party will be member‑centered and focus on voting‑rights issues as his approval drops to the mid‑20s% and internal calls for his resignation rise.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jang-dong-hyuk-pledges-membercentered-party-as-people-power-support-slips

### 2026-07-11: Kim Min-seok clashes with party rivals over prescription dispute ahead of Democratic Party convention

Kim Min-seok and Jeong Cheong‑rae spar over a prescription claim as the Democratic Party’s leadership contest and rule reforms heat up before the 8·17 convention.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kim-min-seok-clashes-with-party-rivals-over-prescription-dispute-ahead-of-democratic-party-conventio

### 2026-07-10: South Korea Democratic Party leadership race heats up ahead of August convention

South Korea's Democratic Party leadership fight intensifies as Kim Min‑seok, Jeong Chung‑rae and Park Seong‑jun vie for top spots, while factions clash over a proposed preference‑vote rule ahead of the August ‑

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-democratic-party-faces-internal-power-struggle-ahead-of-elections

### 2026-07-10: South Korea's Democratic Party weighs mega‑project reforms amid election uncertainty

Former PM Kim Min‑seok warned the Democratic Party may lose its parliamentary majority, while the party’s new mega‑project committee pledged regulatory cuts and tailored legislation to boost IT, digital and re‑

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-democratic-party-weighs-megaproject-reforms-amid-election-uncertainty

### 2026-07-10: Han Dong-hoon’s party board case reopens as travel ban lifted and Ahn Cheol-soo blocks his party return

Police revive the probe into Han Dong‑hoon’s alleged defamatory posts on the party forum, prompting fresh intra‑party conflict and Ahn Cheol‑soo’s opposition to his return, as a three‑month travel ban on Han is

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lee-junseok-says-he-never-knew-of-jeong-ihans-fake-incident-han-donghoon-demands-timing

### 2026-07-10: Jang Dong-hyuk urges police reform and warns against dismantling prosecutors

PPP leader Jang Dong-hyuk protested police handling of a murder case, demanded retention of prosecutors' supplementary investigation authority, and warned that dismantling prosecutors would create a 'monster' ‑

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jang-dong-hyuk-urges-police-reform-and-warns-against-dismantling-prosecutors

### 2026-07-10: South Korea's People Power Party leader Jang Dong‑hyeok calls for strict disciplinary action

PPP chief Jang Dong‑hyeok calls for permanent bans on members guilty of criminal acts, rejects targeting any individual, and pledges to stay on as leader while pushing party reform.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-people-power-party-leader-jang-donghyeok-calls-for-strict-disciplinary-action

### 2026-07-10: People Power Party criticises Han Dong‑hoon and calls for review of leveraged ETFs

People Power Party leaders denounced Han Dong‑hoon’s conduct and called for permanent bans on offenders, while also demanding a review of leveraged Samsung‑SK Hynix ETFs blamed for market volatility.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/people-power-party-criticises-han-donghoon-and-calls-for-review-of-leveraged-etfs

### 2026-07-08: South Korea parties dispute overhaul of assembly committees

South Korea’s ruling Democratic Party and opposition People Power Party are sparring over committee reforms in the national assembly and in Daegu’s Dalseong‑gun council, each accusing the other of undermining ‑

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-parties-dispute-overhaul-of-assembly-committees

### 2026-07-08: South Korean lawmaker Ko Min-jeong launches bid for Democratic Party leadership

Ko Min-jeong, a close ally of former President Moon, announced her bid for Democratic Party leadership, vowing to uphold Moon's legacy, back Lee Jae‑myung's government, and focus on youth‑centered reforms.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-lawmaker-ko-min-jeong-launches-bid-for-democratic-party-leadership

### 2026-07-08: Song Young-gil launches bid for South Korea Democratic Party leadership

Song Young‑gil declared his run for Democratic Party chair, warning of a “red card” in the next election and pledging support for President Lee Jae‑myung.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/song-young-gil-launches-bid-for-south-korea-democratic-party-leadership

### 2026-07-07: South Korea election commission under probe for ballot shortage and preferential hiring

South Korea's Central Election Commission is under a parliamentary probe into the June 3 ballot shortage and past preferential hiring, with disciplinary measures deemed insufficient.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-election-commission-under-probe-for-ballot-shortage-and-preferential-hiring

### 2026-07-07: Na Kyung-won slams 800‑trillion‑won Ho‑Nam semiconductor mega‑project

Lawmaker Na Kyung‑won condemned the government’s 800 trillion‑won Ho‑Nam semiconductor project as irrational, urging parliamentary scrutiny and warning of regional discrimination.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/na-kyung-won-slams-800trillionwon-honam-semiconductor-megaproject

### 2026-07-07: South Korean parties grapple with internal discipline and election reforms

South Korean parties confront internal disciplinary fights and propose election‑rule reforms, including a preference‑vote system and a revived youth committee.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-parties-grapple-with-internal-discipline-and-election-reforms

### 2026-07-07: South Korea's Democratic Party adopts preference voting for leadership race

South Korea's Democratic Party will use preference voting for its August 17 leadership race, eliminating runoffs, while lawmaker Kim Young‑jin calls for supreme council member Lee Sung‑yoon to resign over a 'kn

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-democratic-party-adopts-preference-voting-for-leadership-race

### 2026-07-07: Jeong Cheong-rae Faces Opposition in South Korea Democratic Party Leadership Race

Jeong Cheong‑rae says he faces a 2‑to‑1 or 3‑to‑1 anti‑Jeong coalition in the Democratic Party’s leadership race and rejects claims of self‑politics, citing merit‑based appointments.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-democratic-party-exleader-jeong-cheongrae-warns-of-growing-antijeong-coalition

### 2026-07-06: South Korea arrests protester over National Assembly election probe at Olympic Park

A 60‑year‑old was arrested for obstructing the National Assembly’s election probe at Olympic Park, while authorities revealed CCTV blind spots covering the ballot‑box storage area.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-arrests-protester-over-national-assembly-election-probe-at-olympic-park

### 2026-07-06: South Korean Lawmaker Han Dong-hoon Criticizes Plan to End Prosecution's Supplementary Investigation Power

Lawmaker Han Dong‑hoon warned that abolishing the prosecution’s supplementary investigation power could lead to more “Jang Yoon‑gi‑type” cases, criticizing the Democratic Party’s reform plan.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-lawmaker-han-dong-hoon-criticizes-plan-to-end-prosecutions-supplementary-investigation-

### 2026-07-06: South Korea enforces fake news law, journalists warn chilling effect

South Korea's new fake‑news law, effective July 7, imposes up to 5× damages and 1 bn‑won fines on media and influencers, prompting journalists to warn of a chilling effect on free speech.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-people-power-party-rejects-democratic-partys-thirdparty-proposal-for-election-commissio

### 2026-07-06: People Power Party in South Korea battles over Jang Dong-hyuk disciplinary move

People Power Party lawmakers warn that disciplining leader Jang Dong‑hyuk could force his resignation and deepen party splits, while an ethics committee targets the broader anti‑Jang faction and criticises anew

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/people-power-party-in-south-korea-battles-over-jang-dong-hyuk-disciplinary-move

### 2026-07-06: Kim Min-seok launches bid for South Korea's Democratic Party leadership

Former PM Kim Min‑seok declared his candidacy for DP chair in Gwangju, urging party reform and criticizing current leadership, as a four‑way leadership race unfolds.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/former-south-korean-prime-minister-kim-min-seok-launches-bid-for-democratic-party-leadership

### 2026-07-06: South Korea's interim parliament stalls over committee chair appointments and election commission probe

South Korea's interim parliament deadlocked on committee chair assignments and the mandate for a special prosecutor to probe election‑commission ballot issues, with the ruling and opposition parties at odds.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-interim-parliament-stalls-over-committee-chair-appointments-and-election-commission-pro

### 2026-07-05: South Korean President Lee Jae‑myung’s approval rises to 47% in latest poll

President Lee Jae‑myung’s approval rose to 47% with disapproval at 49.2%; Democratic Party support hit 43% versus 40.3% for the opposition, amid regional investment announcements.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-president-lee-jaemyungs-approval-rises-to-47-in-latest-poll

### 2026-07-05: South Korea's election committee investigates ballot‑paper shortage in 6·3 local elections

South Korea’s election committee probed the ballot‑paper shortage in the 6·3 local elections, scrutinizing witness choices, special prosecutor appointment, and the costly verification of 2.47 million unused vot

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-koreas-election-votepaper-shortage-sparks-parliamentary-probe

### 2026-07-05: Daegu Council Chairman Im In-hwan Calls for Semiconductor Investment and AI Data Center Revival

Daegu council chair Im In‑hwan urges semiconductor investment and revives AI data‑center plans; mayor Chu Kyung‑ho pledges cooperation at council opening.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/daegu-council-chairman-im-in-hwan-calls-for-semiconductor-investment-and-ai-data-center-revival

### 2026-07-05: Jang Dong-hyuk condemns South Korea's new online speech law as 'mouth‑covering law

People Power Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk denounced the July 7 rollout of South Korea’s revised Information Network Act as a ‘mouth‑covering law’ that could silence opposition comments, warned of up‑to‑10 billon

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-to-introduce-special-prosecutor-bill-over-votingpaper-shortage

### 2026-07-05: South Korean opposition pushes for public recount of 2.47 million ballot papers

South Korean opposition leader Yoon Sang‑hyun seeks a public recount of 2.47 million ballots at Olympic Park, citing cost concerns and procedural lapses in the June 3 election.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korean-opposition-pushes-for-public-recount-of-247-million-ballot-papers

### 2026-07-04: South Korea arrests protester for blocking election poll site in Seoul

South Korean police arrested a 60‑year‑old man after a month‑long protest at an Olympic Park poll site over voting‑paper shortages, part of a broader crackdown that has investigated 186 participants and filed ​

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-arrests-protester-for-blocking-election-poll-site-in-seoul

### 2026-07-03: Former South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok Announces Bid for Democratic Party Leadership

Former PM Kim Min-seok announced his run for Democratic Party leader, citing party reform and warning of election loss without change, after a ceremony at Gwangju’s 5·18 memorial.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kim-min-seok-faces-internal-debate-on-prosecution-reform-as-leadership-bid-looms-in-south-korea

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Cite as: South Korea: President Lee's approval hits record lows. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/south-koreas-june-3-local-elections-draw-intensified-campaigns-legal-probes-and-creative-voter-outre