South Korean President Lee Jae-myung’s nominee for justice minister, Kim Seung-won, has withdrawn from consideration amid declining public approval of Lee’s administration. Kim’s decision marks the second high-profile Cabinet pick to step down this month following Lee’s extensive reshuffle in late August.

Kim’s withdrawal came shortly after Yong Hye-in, who had been nominated for the position of gender-equality minister, also stepped aside. Both resignations have raised concerns about the stability of Lee’s Cabinet as the president faces mounting criticism over his personnel choices.

At a press conference, Kim acknowledged that he had failed to meet public expectations and expressed regret over any potential difficulties his nomination might have caused for the administration. He denied recent accusations made by a conservative lawmaker alleging that he had improperly lobbied regulators regarding a drug trial and was involved in financial irregularities. Kim characterized these claims as unfounded.

“I gravely accept that I did not meet the public’s expectations, and I will deeply reflect on my shortcomings,” Kim said in his remarks.

A recent Gallup Korea poll released on Friday showed Lee’s approval rating at 37%, the lowest since he assumed office in June 2025. Analysts link the president’s declining popularity in part to controversies surrounding his Cabinet appointments, as well as growing public dissatisfaction with the administration’s direction.

The setbacks come as Lee’s government attempts to push forward an ambitious reform agenda, with the Cabinet reshuffle intended to strengthen governance. However, the departures of two key nominees so early in his tenure have prompted questions about Lee’s ability to maintain cohesive leadership moving forward.