SEOUL, April 4 (UPI) -- The popularity of South Korea's leader has been rising on the back of his push for a free trade deal with the United States, a survey showed Wednesday.
Approval ratings for President Roh Moo-hyun surged to 29.8 percent, the highest point since July 2005, according to a poll made jointly by Gallup Korea and the country's largest newspaper, Chosun Ilbo.
His popularity has remained at a record low of just above 10 percent for the past year in the wake of flip-flop policies and a prolonged economic slump. His rating marked as high as 60 percent just after he took office in early 2003. His five-year single term ends in early 2008.
Polling agents attributed Roh's rising popularity to the conclusion of a free trade agreement with the United States this week, which is expected to boost its economy and improve ties with Washington.
