Lee Jae Myung

Lee Jae Myung Biography

Lee Jae Myung is a prominent South Korean politician and lawyer who became the 14th president of South Korea in 2025. He is known for his progressive policies, populist style, and humble beginnings. As a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, Lee has been influential in shaping political discourse through his roles as mayor, governor, party leader, and presidential candidate. His rise to the presidency marked a significant moment in South Korea’s political landscape, especially given the narrow margin by which he previously lost the 2022 presidential election.

Childhood

Lee Jae Myung was born around December 8, 1963, in a poor mountain village in Andong, Gyeongbuk Province, South Korea. He was the fifth of seven children in a humble family struggling under the dire economic conditions of the time. During his early years, South Korea experienced severe poverty, and his parents delayed registering his birth due to high infant mortality rates. Lee left school early to contribute to his family’s income and worked in a factory in Seongnam, where he suffered an injury at the age of 15 that limited the mobility of his left arm.

Education

Despite his interrupted formal schooling, Lee demonstrated remarkable resilience by earning middle and high school equivalency diplomas through self-study while working. In 1982, he was admitted to Chung-Ang University, where he studied law. Lee passed the bar exam in 1986, becoming a licensed lawyer. His legal career was marked by advocacy for human rights and labor issues, particularly focusing on marginalized communities and workers affected by industrial accidents.

Career

Lee Jae Myung began his political career in 2005, initially experiencing several electoral defeats. In 2010, he was elected mayor of Seongnam, South Korea's tenth largest city, and was re-elected in 2014. As mayor, he implemented bold reforms including welfare initiatives like youth dividends and free school uniforms. He also banned the slaughter of dogs for meat at local markets. In 2018, Lee became governor of Gyeonggi Province, the most populous region in South Korea, earning praise for his effective management of the COVID-19 pandemic. He resigned in 2021 to pursue the presidency, becoming the Democratic Party’s nominee for the 2022 election, which he narrowly lost. Lee was later elected to the National Assembly and served as his party’s leader before winning the 2025 presidential election in a landslide victory.

Family Life

Lee Jae Myung comes from a large family, being the fifth of seven siblings. His difficult childhood and family struggles heavily influenced his political views and dedication to social justice. Details about his current family and personal relationships are less public, but it is known that his background and family life have deeply shaped his commitment to equity and reform.

Achievements

Among his key achievements, Lee is recognized for innovative welfare programs at the municipal and provincial levels, such as implementing versions of universal basic income and youth dividends. His crisis management during the COVID-19 pandemic in Gyeonggi Province was widely praised. Lee’s political ascent from a disadvantaged background to president underscores his commitment to uplifting marginalized groups and driving economic and social reforms. He has also played a pivotal role in legislative actions, including leading efforts during a martial law crisis that resulted in the impeachment of the previous president.

Controversies

Lee Jae Myung’s political journey has been marked by several controversies and legal challenges. He survived an assassination attempt in 2024 and has faced multiple criminal investigations related to allegations such as bribery, election law violations, and encouraging false testimony. While he and his supporters argue these charges are politically motivated, these issues have sparked debate and scrutiny throughout his career. His outspoken and sometimes confrontational style has also polarized opinion within South Korea’s political landscape.

Lee Jae Myung Summary

Lee Jae Myung's story is one of resilience, determination, and political ambition rooted in a modest upbringing. From his early factory work and legal advocacy to becoming mayor, governor, and eventually president of South Korea, his trajectory reflects a commitment to social justice and reform. Despite facing personal and political challenges, Lee has emerged as a significant figure in South Korea’s contemporary politics, striving to lead the nation towards greater equity and progress.