South Korea's energy ministry announced on March 11 that it would aim to approve two nuclear reactors to begin operations later in March and another four more by mid-May, as well as consider easing operational restrictions on coal-fired power plants in the event that liquefied natural gas deliveries are disrupted due to the Iran war. That day, Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol noted that Seoul was considering a supplemental budget to fund fuel support measures.

President Lee will likely time a national referendum on expanding presidential term limits to coincide with a June local election, so Seoul is sensitive to the risk of energy disruptions lowering his public support and jeopardizing such a vote.