Lee Jae-myung Elected South Korea's President Amid Political Upheaval

Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party has been elected as South Korea's new president, securing 51.7% of the vote in the June 3, 2025, election. His victory follows the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who was removed from office after imposing martial law. Lee's win marks a significant shift in South Korean politics, ending a period of conservative leadership and political turmoil.

A former human rights lawyer and labor advocate, Lee campaigned on a platform of economic reform, social welfare expansion, and diplomatic recalibration. His policy proposals include a four-day workweek, extended retirement age, universal basic services, and a recall system for lawmakers. Lee also aims to balance relations between the U.S. and China while maintaining the U.S.-South Korea security alliance.

Lee's administration faces immediate challenges, including economic slowdown, political polarization, and complex foreign policy dynamics. Despite these hurdles, his decisive victory and the Democratic Party's legislative majority provide a strong mandate for his reform agenda.

Lee's election is seen as a testament to South Korea's democratic resilience and a potential turning point in its domestic and international affairs.