Lee Hak-jae, who has been at odds with the government of Lee Jae-myung, is set to resign as the President of Incheon International Airport Corporation on the 25th of this month. His resignation comes at a time when he is being considered as a potential candidate for the Incheon mayoralty in the upcoming local elections, having just taken office in June 2023. The announcement was made by the corporation, indicating that this transition is noteworthy given the political landscape surrounding the local governance in Incheon.

Recently, Lee Hak-jae has publicly criticized the Lee Jae-myung administration, leveraging social media and press conferences to voice his opposition. Specifically, he has responded to directives from the government regarding foreign currency smuggling searches at the airport, declaring on social media that such thorough investigations were impossible and not within the airport corporation's responsibilities. Moreover, he has accused the Blue House and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport of intervening illegally in personnel matters concerning the airport, which has sparked considerable debate and scrutiny.

The context of Lee's criticism is complicated by the fact that the foreign currency search operations are conducted in partnership with the Incheon Customs through a collaboration agreement. Additionally, allegations he raised about illegal personnel interventions were challenged by the Incheon Airport Corporation's labor union, arguing that his examples of personnel interference were indicative of favoritism and politicization of appointments. This ongoing conflict not only highlights tensions between local and national government dynamics but also raises questions about the integrity and accountability of public office holders amidst electoral considerations.