President Lee Calls for Expansion of Voting Rights for Overseas Koreans

President Lee Jae-myung emphasized on June 2 that discussions in the National Assembly regarding the expansion of voting rights for overseas Koreans should not be neglected, even in challenging circumstances.

During a Cabinet meeting and emergency economic assessment session at the Blue House, President Lee addressed Kim Kyung-hyup, the head of the Overseas Koreans Agency, stating that this issue is the most significant grievance for overseas Koreans and a fundamental right as citizens, not merely a service.

He proposed that adding more polling stations abroad is a necessary first step, followed by the introduction of mail-in voting. He also suggested that electronic voting should be considered.

Regarding the lack of progress in the National Assembly, President Lee remarked, "Given the current attitude, there seem to be those who are opposed to overseas Koreans voting. There are various excuses, and reaching an agreement is not easy."

He criticized the notion of requiring consensus for all decisions, stating, "In a democratic country, we should respect minority opinions but ultimately follow the majority when necessary. If everything is to be resolved by consensus, why hold elections and work hard to elect representatives?"