Seoul: Lee Jae-myung, once an underage factory worker striving to support his family, has been formally nominated as the Democratic Party’s (DP) presidential candidate, with the election looming just 37 days away. This marks Lee’s second attempt at the presidency following his narrow defeat in 2022 to Yoon Suk Yeol by a mere 0.73 percentage point.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee maintains a substantial lead in recent opinion polls amidst a politically polarized climate, largely influenced by Yoon’s failed attempt to impose military rule. Since his previous bid, Lee has solidified his leadership within the DP, particularly after showcasing his instrumental role in the National Assembly’s decision to reject Yoon’s martial law declaration.
Lee, known for his assertive public administration style, has recently softened his image, opting for a more approachable demeanor and emphasizing economic growth as his primary focus for the upcoming June 3 presidential vote. Born in poverty in Andong, Lee’s early life was marked by hardship, including factory work that resulted in significant personal injuries.
Despite these challenges, Lee’s difficult upbringing became his driving force. He excelled academically, passing qualification exams to attend Chung-Ang University on a scholarship, eventually becoming a human rights lawyer inspired by former President Roh Moo-hyun. Lee entered politics in 2006, initially facing setbacks, but ultimately gaining recognition as Seongnam’s mayor in 2010, where he implemented progressive welfare programs.
His candid “cider” remarks and leadership during the impeachment campaign against President Park Geun-hye in 2016 catapulted him into the national spotlight. Despite losing the DP’s 2017 primary to Moon Jae-in, Lee continued to rise, becoming Gyeonggi’s governor in 2018 and advancing his welfare initiatives.
In 2022, Lee’s presidential campaign was marred by allegations related to a land development scandal, resulting in a narrow defeat to Yoon. Undeterred, Lee quickly returned to politics, securing a parliamentary seat and later leading the DP as its chair. His tenure included a hunger strike protesting Yoon’s policies and surviving legal challenges that threatened his career.
After a near-fatal stabbing incident in 2023, Lee’s resilience only strengthened his position. He guided the DP to a significant victory in the 2024 general election and played a pivotal role in reversing Yoon’s martial law, leading to Yoon’s removal and the upcoming election.
Lee, married to Kim Hye-kyung with whom he shares two sons, is currently leading the presidential race and is well-positioned to secure victory.