Seoul – President Lee Jae‑Myung announced on Tuesday that he has accepted the resignation of his chief presidential policy adviser, Kim Yong‑beom. Kim, who had been a central figure in shaping Lee’s economic agenda, stepped down shortly after the president unveiled a sweeping cabinet reshuffle.

Cabinet changes and new appointments

The reshuffle, first disclosed on Sunday, introduced six new ministers, including replacements for the economy and finance ministries and the land ministry. In addition, the president named new presidential aides and a trade minister in late August. The changes signal Lee’s effort to revitalize his administration after a recent slide in public support.

Approval rating drops

According to a Realmeter poll released Monday, Lee’s approval rating fell 1.3 percentage points to 38.9 percent, marking the first time his support dipped into the 30‑percent range since he took office in June of last year. The poll cited rising concerns over housing prices and rental costs as primary factors eroding public confidence.

Implications for economic policy

Kim Yong‑beom had been instrumental in advising the president on key economic issues, including housing market reforms and measures to stabilize the stock market. His departure raises questions about the continuity of Lee’s policy direction, especially as the new economic team takes shape.

While the president has not detailed the specific reasons for Kim’s resignation, officials described the move as a routine transition within the broader effort to refresh the administration’s leadership. Analysts suggest that the new appointments could bring fresh perspectives to longstanding challenges such as high housing costs, youth unemployment, and sluggish wage growth.

Looking ahead

Observers will be watching how the newly appointed ministers navigate these economic pressures and whether the reshuffle can restore confidence among voters. The administration’s next steps are likely to focus on delivering tangible results in the housing sector and broader economic stability, aiming to halt the decline in approval and reinforce Lee’s mandate.

The Blue House spokesperson confirmed that President Lee had formally accepted Kim’s resignation and thanked him for his service. No further comments were provided regarding the future role of the former adviser.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.