Lee Jae-myung elected as South Korea's President after Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment

SEOUL, South Korea — In a decisive move that underscores the resilience of South Korea's democratic institutions, liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung has been elected president, following the impeachment and removal of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. Lee's victory marks a significant political shift after months of turmoil stemming from Yoon's controversial declaration of martial law in December 2024.

On December 3, 2024, President Yoon declared martial law, alleging infiltration by "anti-state and North Korean forces" within the government. The decree imposed extensive restrictions, including bans on political activities, rallies, and demonstrations, and placed media under strict control. Yoon appointed Army General Park An-su as Martial Law Commander to enforce these measures.

The National Assembly swiftly responded by voting to lift the martial law declaration, with 190 out of 300 members present supporting the motion. Under the South Korean constitution, the president is required to comply with such a decision. Yoon initially resisted but eventually revoked the order, stating, "The troops deployed for martial law have been withdrawn."

The fallout from Yoon's actions was immediate. On December 14, 2024, the National Assembly voted to impeach him, with 204 members in favor. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assumed the role of acting president pending the Constitutional Court's decision. On April 4, 2025, the court unanimously upheld the impeachment, citing serious violations of the constitution and a breach of public trust.

Following his removal, Yoon faced multiple legal challenges. He was arrested in January 2025 on charges of leading an insurrection but was released in March after a court canceled his arrest warrant on technical grounds. In June 2025, a special prosecutor sought a new arrest warrant for Yoon, citing obstruction charges due to his refusal to comply with legal summons for questioning. However, the court denied the request, noting Yoon's recent cooperation.

A snap presidential election was held on June 3, 2025, to fill the leadership vacuum. Liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party won decisively, securing 49.42% of the vote, while his conservative rival Kim Moon-soo garnered 41.15%. Lee's victory was seen as a public rejection of undemocratic measures and a desire for political stability.

Lee Jae-myung, a 61-year-old former human rights lawyer, has a history of advocating for labor and human rights. He previously served as the mayor of Seongnam and governor of Gyeonggi Province. Lee ran for president in 2022 but narrowly lost to Yoon Suk Yeol. His 2025 campaign focused on revitalizing the economy, reducing inequality, and easing national divisions.

The impeachment of Yoon Suk Yeol and the subsequent election of Lee Jae-myung signify a pivotal moment in South Korea's democratic history. These events underscore the resilience of South Korea's democratic institutions and the public's commitment to upholding constitutional order. Lee's administration faces immediate challenges, including economic instability, rising U.S. tariffs, and strained foreign relations. He aims to renegotiate trade terms with the U.S. and recalibrate relations with China, Japan, and North Korea, favoring diplomacy and South Korea's autonomy in international affairs.

As Lee Jae-myung assumes office, the nation watches closely to see how he will address the challenges ahead and fulfill the promises of his campaign.