South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun yesterday proposed holding a national referendum in December to determine whether he has the public's trust, and said he would step down if he fares poorly.The president acknowledged that such a process would generate political "chaos" at a time when his government is trying to revive the economy, and resolve a standoff over North Korea's development of nuclear weapons.

　　Roh said he wants to hold the referendum around December 15 so that a presidential election could take place at the same time as April parliamentary elections if the vote goes against him."I believe the time has come to put myself forward," Roh said in a speech to the National Assembly. "If there is a doubt, I believe that I must put myself forward and undergo the people's judgment."

　　"While I undergo the referendum, insecurity among the people and chaos in state affairs are expected. However, let's endure the pain," he said.

　　He acknowledged that the idea of a referendum was "not without legal dispute," but said he believed it was legally possible if an agreement among political parties is reached.

　　Roh's perceived inconsistency on major policy issues has alienated many South Koreans, and corruption scandals involving presidential aides have also hurt his approval ratings. The economy is another worry, as foreign investment declines and domestic demand remains weak.

　　He said he didn't feel confident that he could carry out his duty amid allegations that one of his longtime aides received illegal payoffs from a major South Korean company. He also cited a weak political base and dwindling support from the people.

　　"I believe that I cannot conduct state affairs under these circumstances," Roh said. By proposing the referendum, "I believe that I would be doing my share to some extent if it serves as an opportunity to change our politics, even if it means not being able to fulfill my tenure."

　　The main opposition Grand National Party described Roh's proposal as a "political gamble" and a "political plot" ahead of the parliamentary elections.

　　"Isn't Roh's announcement a calculated political plot aimed at patching up corruption involving his close aides and overcoming the crisis he faces?" the party said in a statement.

　　South Korea's Unification Minister Jeong Se-hyun underlined the importance of continuing to carry out inter-Korean projects despite the crisis, and said Roh's proposal was unlikely to effect inter-Korean relations.