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

In a historic electoral shift following months of political unrest, Lee Jae-myung, the liberal opposition leader from South Korea’s Democratic Party, has been elected as the new President of South Korea. His victory marks a pivotal moment after the ouster of conservative leader Yoon Suk Yeol, who was removed following the controversial imposition of martial law. With a background rooted in humble beginnings and a promise of economic revival and pragmatic diplomacy, Lee assumes leadership amid growing concerns over North Korea, U.S. trade tensions, and a polarized domestic landscape.

Why in News?

June 4, 2025: Lee Jae-myung officially declared the new President of South Korea after defeating conservative candidate Kim Moon Soo in a closely watched election. The election follows the ouster of Yoon Suk Yeol, who imposed martial law in a failed attempt to curb dissent. Lee’s win comes amid regional geopolitical tension, U.S. tariff issues, and North Korea’s nuclear threats.

Key Objectives of Lee’s Presidency

• Rebuild public trust post-political turmoil.
• Drive economic revitalization and reduce inequality.
• Pursue pragmatic diplomacy, balancing ties with U.S., Japan, China, and North Korea.
• Promote peaceful engagement with North Korea without drastic concessions.

Background

Lee Jae-myung served as,

• Governor of Gyeonggi Province
• Mayor of Seongnam City
• Rose to prominence with an anti-establishment, pro-reformist image.
• Noted for his rags-to-riches story, starting as a child laborer.

Election Results Snapshot

• Vote share (95% counted)
• Lee Jae-myung: 48.86%
• Kim Moon Soo: 41.98%
• Exit polls (KBS, MBC, SBS)
• Lee: 51.7%
• Kim: 39.3%
• Mr. Kim conceded defeat even before final results were declared.

Foreign Policy Stand

• Supports alliance with the U.S. as central to South Korea’s foreign relations.
• Aims to strengthen trilateral cooperation with U.S. and Japan.
• Seeks improved but cautious ties with North Korea.
• Acknowledges difficulty in arranging a summit with Kim Jong Un.
• Minimal shift expected in immediate foreign policy compared to conservatives.

Significance of the Win

• Marks a turning point from authoritarianism to democracy after the martial law crisis.
• Reflects public frustration with conservative missteps.
• Symbolizes a left-liberal comeback in South Korean politics.