Seoul: Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, is anticipated to advocate for the relocation of the presidential office back to the Cheong Wa Dae compound upon assuming office. This move marks a significant shift from the current presidential office established in Yongsan in 2022 under the Yoon Suk Yeol government, which aimed to bring the presidency closer to the public by situating it in the defense ministry's headquarters.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee Jae-myung has expressed his preference for the historical and symbolic Cheong Wa Dae site throughout his campaign. On a cable TV YouTube channel last month, Lee stated, "Cheong Wa Dae is the best. It is very old, symbolic and the most ideal location." However, Lee acknowledges that the transition back to Cheong Wa Dae will require considerable time due to necessary repair and renovation work, suggesting he may initially operate from the Yongsan compound if elected.
Lee has dismissed the idea of using a third temporary location, emphasizing his commitment to prudent use of taxpayers' money. Additionally, it remains uncertain whether Lee will adopt Yoon's official residence in Hannam-dong, which was previously remodeled from the foreign minister's official residence.
A related survey by major TV stations KBS, MBC, and SBS revealed that 58.2 percent of South Koreans support the return to Cheong Wa Dae as the presidential office. In contrast, 15.4 percent favor maintaining the office in Yongsan, while 13.9 percent prefer relocating to the administrative city of Sejong. Only 3.6 percent opted for the government complex in central Seoul, with 9 percent undecided.
The former Cheong Wa Dae site, positioned on a secluded hilltop in central Seoul, has been opened to the public for sightseeing. The survey further indicated that 36.7 percent of respondents believe the optimal time for a constitutional reform referendum would be during the 2026 local elections, with varied opinions on other potential timings.
The survey also highlighted that over 62 percent of respondents prioritize economic growth and job creation as key focuses for the incoming government.