Moon Jae-in's approval ratings have soared in less than three weeks since he was sworn in as South Korea's president.

Despite receiving a little over 40 percent of the vote during the election, the leader's approval ratings have hit unprecedented levels. A recent survey shows 82 percent of respondents approve of Moon's performance as president so far. 

Observers say much of Moon's early success has to do with his appeal to the average citizen. Images of the president's seemingly mundane acts have gone viral, including shaking hands with journalists before announcing key administrative appointments, to the windbreaker he wore during a hike with reporters. 

Moon has made it a point for his administration to be as communicative and transparent as possible. But once the honeymoon phase is over, his campaign pledges and policies will undoubtedly be put to test. 

Critics are already scrutinizing Moon's policies in dealing with the DPRK. Pyongyang has fired ballistic missiles on two different occasions since his inauguration. In response, Moon's administration says it will deal sternly with any provocations while leaving the door open for dialogue. 

The majority of former presidents in South Korea have been linked to scandal and fallen from grace after their term in office. Moon has a chance to break that cycle.