South Korea’s Lee Jae-myung Projected to Win Presidential Election
Published Date: 3 Jun, 2025
June 3, 2025 — Seoul
In a pivotal moment for South Korean politics, exit polls from today's snap presidential election indicate that Lee Jae-myung, leader of the liberal Democratic Party, is poised to become the nation's next president. The election, held on June 3, was necessitated by the impeachment and removal of President Yoon Suk-yeol following his controversial declaration of martial law in December 2024.
A Resounding Victory for Lee Jae-myung
According to exit polls, Lee Jae-myung secured approximately 51.7% of the vote, leading his conservative opponent, Kim Moon-soo, by a significant margin. Lee's campaign emphasized economic revitalization, social welfare, and pragmatic foreign policy, resonating with voters disillusioned by the previous administration's authoritarian actions. His platform, dubbed "Meoksanism," focuses on practical socioeconomic issues, including job creation, affordable housing, and enhanced welfare programs.
The Road to the Presidency
Lee Jae-myung's political journey has been marked by resilience and determination. A former human rights lawyer and ex-governor of Gyeonggi Province, he previously ran for president in 2022 but narrowly lost to Yoon Suk-yeol. In the aftermath of the 2024 political crisis, Lee emerged as a unifying figure within the Democratic Party, leading it to a landslide victory in the 2024 parliamentary elections.
Challenges Ahead
Despite his electoral success, Lee faces significant challenges as he prepares to assume office. The nation remains deeply divided, with political polarization heightened by recent events. Additionally, Lee is currently involved in ongoing legal proceedings related to alleged election law violations, which he denies. These legal issues may impact his ability to govern effectively and could influence public perception of his leadership.
Immediate Transition
Following the election, Lee Jae-myung is set to assume the presidency immediately, bypassing the customary two-month transition period. This expedited transition underscores the urgency of stabilizing the nation and addressing pressing economic and social issues. Lee has pledged to prioritize national unity and healing, aiming to bridge the divides that have characterized recent political discourse.
Date: 3 Jun, 2025
