Key facts
- Lee stated constitutional revision requires support of at least 200 lawmakers.
- Lee reaffirmed commitment to reforms, asking for specific tasks to be pointed out.
- Lee stated he was a "biggest victim of the previous administration and some rogue political prosecutors."
- The Serious Crimes Investigation Agency and Public Prosecution Service were launched on October 2, 2026.
SEOUL, Oct. 15 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung on Thursday dismissed speculation that he would seek a constitutional revision to allow himself to serve another term, pledging to press ahead with reforms. Lee wrote on X that his goals have not changed, though his methods have become more pragmatic and cautious. He stressed that a constitutional revision requires the support of at least 200 lawmakers, including opposition lawmakers, and cannot be pursued at his discretion. Lee has repeatedly denied any intention to seek reelection through a constitutional revision amid opposition accusations that he may push for a constitutional reform to extend his time in office. He reaffirmed his commitment to reform, saying his administration had moved faster than promised on its agenda. On prosecution reform, Lee said he was "the biggest victim of the previous administration and some rogue political prosecutors" while stressing that investigations and indictments remain essential functions for maintaining social order. The Serious Crimes Investigation Agency (SCIA) and the Public Prosecution Service were launched on October 2, 2026, as part of a sweeping overhaul that separated investigative and prosecutorial powers after 78 years of the prosecution service holding both roles.