When South Korean President Lee Jae-myung took office earlier this year, many in the country’s business community were anxious about what changes the new administration would bring, bracing for a sharp leftward turn in policy. Lee’s progressive reputation — bolstered by pro-labor campaign pledges and talk of higher taxes — had boardrooms on edge. 

Yet nearly six months into Lee’s presidency, a palpable shift in sentiment is now noticeable among business leaders in Seoul, with many voicing guarded optimism about the administration’s surprisingly moderate policies and success in navigating difficult tariff negotiations with the U.S.

South Korea’s hosting of the