Lee Jae-myung Elected President of South Korea Amid Political Upheaval

In a decisive electoral outcome, Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party has been elected as South Korea's new president, securing 49.4% of the vote in the June 3, 2025, snap election. This victory follows the impeachment and removal of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, marking a significant shift in the nation's political landscape.

Lee's ascent to the presidency comes at a pivotal moment for South Korea, as the nation seeks to recover from recent political instability and economic challenges. His campaign promises to defend democracy, prevent military coups, and focus on economic recovery have resonated with a populace eager for stability and reform. With his party already controlling the National Assembly, Lee's administration is poised to implement significant policy changes.

Background on the Snap Election

The election was necessitated by the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was removed from office by the Constitutional Court on April 4, 2025. This marked the second time in South Korean history that a president was impeached and removed from office, the first being President Park Geun-hye in 2017. The impeachment was triggered by Yoon's declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, which was widely perceived as an attempted coup. The Constitutional Court upheld the impeachment in a unanimous 8–0 decision, citing serious violations of the Constitution.

Election Details

• Date: June 3, 2025
• Voter Turnout: 79.38%, indicating a high level of public engagement
• Candidates:
• Lee Jae-myung (Democratic Party)
• Kim Moon-soo (People Power Party)
• Lee Jun-seok (Reform Party)

Election Results:

• Lee Jae-myung: 49.42% (17,287,513 votes)
• Kim Moon-soo: 41.15% (14,395,639 votes)
• Lee Jun-seok: 8.34% (2,917,523 votes)

Lee's victory was decisive, reflecting a public desire for political stability and reform.

Profile of Lee Jae-myung

Born on December 8, 1963, in Andong, South Korea, Lee Jae-myung comes from a humble background. He worked as a factory laborer before pursuing a law degree at Chung-Ang University, graduating in 1986. Lee's political career includes serving as Mayor of Seongnam (2010–2018) and Governor of Gyeonggi Province (2018–2021). He previously ran for president in 2022 but narrowly lost to Yoon Suk Yeol.

Political Platform and Policies

Lee's campaign focused on defending democracy, preventing military coups, and promoting economic recovery, international security, and national unity. He pledged to boost public spending and strengthen South Korea’s manufacturing sector. His economic vision, termed "Transformative and Fair Growth," aims to address economic slowdown and social inequality through state-led initiatives inspired by Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal.

Market and International Reactions

Financial markets responded positively to Lee's election, with the Kospi index rising 1.4% and the Korean won appreciating. The U.S. government acknowledged the election as free and fair but expressed concerns over potential Chinese interference in global democracies.

Challenges Ahead

Lee faces several challenges, including managing U.S. trade tariffs under President Trump and negotiating defense spending related to the U.S. troop presence in South Korea. He is also expected to pursue improved relations with China, Russia, and North Korea, despite North Korea's recent rejection of reunification efforts.

Social and Political Implications

Lee's victory signifies a significant political shift in South Korea, ending a period of conservative governance marked by political instability. His administration is expected to implement progressive reforms, focusing on economic revitalization and social welfare, which could reshape South Korea's domestic and international policies.

Lee Jae-myung's presidency represents a new chapter for South Korea, with opportunities for democratic strengthening and economic recovery. The nation watches closely as Lee begins to implement his vision amid both domestic and international challenges.