LSN News › Malaysia

Politics · Malaysia Bureau

South Korea's presidential chief of staff resigns as Lee's approval slumps

Kang Hoon-sik has stepped down from his position amid declining public support for President Lee Jae-myung. The resignation follows weeks of falling approval ratings, attributed partly to unsuccessful ministerial appointments.

LSN Malaysia · 21 September 2026

South Korea's presidential chief of staff resigns as Lee's approval slumps

South Korea's presidential chief of staff Kang Hoon-sik has offered his resignation as President Lee Jae-myung's administration faces mounting pressure over declining public approval.

The move comes after a sustained period of falling approval ratings for the president, with observers pointing to failed ministerial nominations as a contributing factor. The unsuccessful appointments have drawn criticism from lawmakers and the public alike, weakening the administration's standing.

Kang's departure represents a significant personnel shift within the presidential office at a time when the Lee administration is seeking to stabilise its political position. The resignation reflects broader challenges facing the government as it navigates policy implementation and parliamentary relations.

The decision underscores the political pressures facing South Korea's executive branch, with high-profile staff changes often signalling attempts to reset public perception and refocus the administration's agenda.

No immediate announcement has been made regarding a successor to the chief of staff position.