Speaking to the Korean community in Mexico City on Thursday, Lee stated there was “absolutely no chance” he would remain in office past June 2, 2030. The remarks, delivered during a state visit, arrived as the president faces domestic scrutiny over his reform agenda and internal friction within his ruling camp.
## Addressing Constitutional Limits
Lee’s statement serves as a direct rebuttal to rumors that gained traction in July, when National Assembly Speaker Cho Jeong-sik suggested that a constitutional amendment allowing for a sitting president’s re-election remained a matter of public choice. The main opposition People Power Party has frequently accused Lee of keeping his options open to extend his tenure through such legal shifts.
During a press conference on Friday, Lee clarified that his term is “clearly limited under the Constitution” and reiterated that he has “absolutely no intention of seeking re-election.”
## Balancing Reform and Political Realism
Beyond his tenure, Lee used the visit to address what he described as the dangers of “hasty” reform. He warned that moving too quickly can lead to a political backlash, citing the French Revolution as a cautionary historical example. He also referenced the 2004 domestic debate over the National Security Act, where he argued that ideological hardliners—including those within his own political circle—sabotaged a potential compromise by demanding total abolition of the law instead of achieving incremental progress.
“I believe it is better to minimize resistance and backlash while achieving tangible, practical results,” Lee stated. This critique appeared aimed at liberal figures like former health minister Rhyu Si-min, who recently criticized the president’s approach to prosecution reform, arguing it deviates from his initial campaign pledges.
## Focus on Bilateral Cooperation
President Lee’s visit to Mexico included a bilateral summit with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, where the two leaders focused on strengthening cultural and economic ties. Lee highlighted the potential for joint ventures in the cultural industry, including collaborations in film, drama, and music, emphasizing that he is committed to fulfilling his campaign projects within the strict timeframe afforded by his current term.