President Lee Jae Myung’s approval rating rebound signals a shift in public sentiment after three weeks of decline. Recent surveys indicate growing support, largely influenced by Lee’s successful tariff deal with the United States and positive economic trends.
According to a poll conducted last week among 2,517 adults, 53 percent gave a favorable assessment of Lee’s performance, marking a 1.8 percentage point increase from the previous week. Conversely, negative assessments dropped to 43.3 percent, down 1.6 points. Pollsters attributed this approval rating rebound to Lee’s pragmatic diplomatic achievements and strengthened economic confidence.
The tariff deal, finalized with U.S. President Donald Trump during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Gyeongju, has been seen as a key factor in restoring public trust. Analysts suggest that Lee’s hands-on approach to diplomacy and international trade has reassured voters about his leadership.
Economic indicators further supported the rise in public approval. The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index recently surpassed the 4,000-point mark for the first time, reflecting robust market performance. Experts note that stock market gains often translate into short-term public approval, reinforcing the approval rating rebound.
In addition to Lee’s personal rating, a separate survey on 1,004 adults indicated growing support for the ruling Democratic Party. Its approval increased 1.3 percentage points to 45.4 percent. Meanwhile, the main opposition People Power Party also saw modest gains, rising 0.6 points to 37.9 percent, marking its third consecutive week of incremental support.
Both surveys carried standard margins of error, 2 points for the first and 3.1 points for the second, with 95 percent confidence intervals. Pollsters emphasized that these fluctuations demonstrate the public’s responsiveness to diplomatic and economic developments.
Political observers highlight that the approval rating rebound provides Lee with momentum ahead of potential policy initiatives and legislative negotiations. However, maintaining these gains will require continued diplomatic engagement and visible economic performance.
The recent trend underscores the connection between international diplomacy, domestic economic health, and public sentiment. Analysts predict that Lee’s next steps in trade and policy will significantly influence whether the approval rating rebound sustains in the coming months.
