Kang Yu-jeong: "President Lee Has a Playful and Youngest-Child Personality"

[Financial News] Kang Yu-jeong, spokesperson for the Office of the President of South Korea, described President Lee Jae Myung as warm and attentive in his everyday demeanor. She explained that President Lee tends to express his thoughts through silence or questions rather than reprimanding his aides. Kang also mentioned the background of the upcoming special national address scheduled for the 3rd.
According to the YouTube channel 'Maebul Show' on the 1st, Kang Yu-jeong appeared on the program and discussed the differences between President Lee’s real personality and his public image.

Kang said, "From my experience, President Lee Jae Myung has a distinctly youngest-child temperament, is very kind, and listens attentively." She added, "He is quite playful, gentle, and soft-spoken, and he pays close attention to what others say." Kang continued, "However, it seems he has an image of being somewhat intimidating or strict, but I have never seen him get angry or scold anyone in various situations."
Regarding his work style, Kang emphasized that the unspoken pressure is greater than direct criticism. She said, "Surprisingly, I have never heard a reprimand from President Lee. Instead, his silence weighs heavily on me." Kang added, "There are times when he simply does not respond. In those moments, I wonder if something went wrong, if he was dissatisfied, or if I fell short, but I have never actually been scolded. It's not just me—I've never seen him get angry or reprimand anyone during meetings or in any other situation."
Kang also spoke about the sense of tension felt by the aides. She said, "He continuously asks probing questions, and either his barrage of questions or his silence can send chills down the spine of those listening."
Meanwhile, President Lee is scheduled to deliver a special national address on the 3rd to mark the first anniversary of the December 3 Unlawful Martial Law. Kang explained that the reason for choosing a special address format is to differentiate it from former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who declared martial law in a special statement on December 3 last year. She added, "For those who are particularly sensitive, just hearing the phrase 'December 3 statement' might bring back unpleasant memories."


hsg@fnnews.com Han Seung-gon Reporter