Seoul — South Korea’s Democratic Party of Korea has officially named Lee Jae-myung as its candidate for the snap presidential election scheduled for June 3, following the impeachment and removal of former President Yoon Suk-yeol.
In his acceptance speech after winning nearly 90 percent of the primary vote, Lee declared, “I am not just the Democratic Party’s candidate, but the candidate of all citizens who yearn for the end of insurrection, the overcoming of crisis, and the pursuit of unity and happiness.”
Political Background and Election Context
The 60-year-old progressive leader, a vocal advocate for economic equality and improved ties with North Korea, is now the clear frontrunner to succeed Yoon, who was ousted earlier this month after attempting to impose martial law during political unrest in December.
Lee played a leading role in orchestrating Yoon’s impeachment, drawing parallels between Yoon’s actions and the country’s past authoritarian regimes. He pledged to steer South Korea toward stability, promising to strengthen national defense, drive innovation in technology, and restore democratic principles.
Lee’s Political Journey
This election marks Lee’s third bid for the presidency. He narrowly lost to Yoon in 2022 in the tightest presidential race in South Korea’s democratic history and finished third in the Democratic Party primary in 2017.
A former governor of Gyeonggi Province and mayor of Seongnam city, Lee has long been recognized for his anti-establishment stance and his efforts to combat corruption and social inequality.
Legal Troubles and Challenges Ahead
Despite his popularity, Lee’s campaign faces significant hurdles. He is currently undergoing five separate criminal trials on charges related to corruption, bribery, and a $1 billion property development scandal. However, if elected president, Lee would likely receive immunity from prosecution during his term.
Meanwhile, the conservative People Power Party, struggling to rebuild public trust after Yoon’s scandal, is set to announce its presidential candidate on May 3.
Lee’s heroic actions during Yoon’s attempted martial law — including famously climbing over the National Assembly walls to help block the decree — have further cemented his image as a defender of democracy during a critical moment in South Korean history.
