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A live broadcast of President Lee Jae-myung's press conference is shown in the waiting room at Seoul Station on the 18th. / Yonhap News

President Lee Jae-myung stressed on the 18th that he has "absolutely no intention of seeking a second term."

President Lee made the remarks during a press conference held at the Cheong Wa Dae State Guest House in the morning, stating, "Claims by some that I am attempting to introduce a parliamentary cabinet system or a semi-presidential system are absurd."

President Lee said, "Serving a consecutive term through constitutional revision is constitutionally impossible, and I have stated repeatedly through various channels that I have never even considered a second term," adding, "I viewed the demand for me to pledge not to run for reelection as a political offensive aimed at creating a narrative that I was abandoning an ambition I had entertained."

He continued, "Nevertheless, I take this opportunity to state once again firmly: I have absolutely no intention of serving a second term."

President Lee went on to express his commitment to constitutional reform, stating, "The 1987 Constitution, born as a product of compromise amid political circumstances of that era, is no longer a fit for today's Republic of Korea."

He added, "I will make efforts to ensure it can be amended through rational debate within the ruling and opposition political circles and on the basis of public consensus."

President Lee also addressed his sharply falling approval ratings following the local elections.

"It is true that I was flustered after the local elections when confronted with the public's rather sudden disappointment and concern," he said. He repeatedly emphasized, "However, after much contemplation and reflection, my conclusion is that 'the people are always right.' It is entirely due to my own shortcomings."

President Lee stated, "With so many challenges before me, I felt pressed for time and failed to properly understand the sentiments of more people," adding, "Driven by the belief that I had to prove myself through tangible results rather than sharp assertions or declarations, I failed to empathize sufficiently with the conflict and pain inevitably arising from the pursuit of livelihood, reform, and national unity."

He added, "I will restore a sense of awe toward the public and approach every matter more attentively, more humbly, and more fiercely," concluding, "The highest objective of state administration is the people's livelihoods—creating better lives for the public and a brighter future for the nation."

                                                                                                            Hong Sun-mi