Lee Jae-myung's election as South Korea's president completes one of the nation's most remarkable political journeys – from factory floors to the Blue House. The 61-year-old leader's victory comes three years after narrowly losing the 2022 election, cementing his status as a champion of working-class voters in Asia's fourth-largest economy.
From Industrial Accident to Political Ascent
Born into poverty, Lee's early life contrasts sharply with South Korea's political elite. After dropping out of school to work in factories, he suffered a career-ending elbow injury that became a catalyst for change. A scholarship launched his legal career, where he defended labor rights before entering politics as mayor of Seongnam (2010-2018) and later governor of Gyeonggi Province.
Crisis Leadership and Controversy
Lee rose to national prominence during the 2024 constitutional crisis, when he scaled parliament fences to block former President Yoon Suk-yeol's attempted martial law decree. His role in Yoon's subsequent impeachment transformed him into a symbol of democratic resistance, though critics question his confrontational style.
Legal Challenges and Policy Agenda
The new president takes office amid five ongoing criminal trials, including corruption allegations he denies as political persecution. With parliamentary control, Lee pledges aggressive AI investment and economic relief for struggling families. Analysts warn his success depends on bridging South Korea's deep political divides while addressing White House trade negotiations.
