What powers does the president of South Korea have?

Under the constitution of the Sixth Republic, the president of South Korea serves as the head of state, the head of government, and the commander of the armed forces.1

The president leads the executive branch and chairs the State Council, which is the highest executive body in the country. Key powers and responsibilities include:12

• Executive Leadership: The president appoints the prime minister, who must then be approved by the National Assembly.1
• Cabinet Management: The president oversees the State Council, which includes the prime minister, heads of executive ministries, and ministers without portfolio.1
• Term Limits: The president is elected by direct popular vote to serve a single five-year term.1

The government operates under a system of separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, ensuring that state authority is divided rather than concentrated in one office.12