Lee says he has 'no intention whatsoever' of seeking reelection

President Lee Jae Myung said Friday that he has “no intention whatsoever” of seeking reelection, drawing a clear line between his push for a constitutional amendment allowing presidents to serve consecutive terms and his own political future.

“Under the Constitution, it is impossible for me to seek reelection through a constitutional amendment and I have repeatedly made clear through various channels that I have never even considered seeking reelection,” Lee said during a press conference.

He described demands that he pledge not to seek another term as a “political offensive” aimed at creating the impression that he had considered reelection before abandoning the idea.

“Nevertheless, I want to make it absolutely clear once again on this occasion,” Lee said. “I have no intention whatsoever of seeking reelection.”

Lee has advocated constitutional revision to introduce a system allowing presidents to serve consecutive terms, saying it would help ensure policy continuity and stability in state affairs.