President Lee Withdraws Nomination of Lee Hyehoon: "Did Not Meet Public Expectations"

On January 25, President Lee Jaemyung withdrew the nomination of Lee Hyehoon as Minister of Planning and Budget.

Lee Hyehoon, nominee for Minister of Planning and Budget, is attending the confirmation hearing of the Finance and Economy Planning Committee held at the National Assembly on the 23rd, responding to questions from members of the committee. 2026.1.23 Photo by Kim Hyunmin

Hong Ikpyo, Senior Presidential Secretary for Political Affairs, announced at a briefing that day, "After careful consideration and deliberation, President Lee has decided to withdraw the nomination of the candidate."

Hong stated, "President Lee listened to a wide range of opinions from all sectors of society regarding the nominee, and closely observed both the confirmation hearing and subsequent public evaluation. Unfortunately, the nominee did not meet the expectations of the public as Minister of Planning and Budget in a government based on popular sovereignty."

He added, "President Lee's commitment to reflection and effort to reaffirm the meaning and value of national unity through inclusive appointments will continue."