SEOUL, South Korea.June 03 (AP) — Lee Jae-myung, who rose from childhood poverty to lead South Korea’s liberal opposition, will assume the presidency Wednesday after a decisive election victory that closes a turbulent chapter sparked by his predecessor’s abortive martial law declaration.
The 60-year-old Democratic Party candidate captured 49.3% of votes in Tuesday’s snap election, with 99% counted by 3:45 a.m. Wednesday(South Korea’s time). Conservative rival Kim Moon-soo conceded after trailing by 8 points (41.3%), calling the outcome “the people’s choice.”
Mandate Amid Crisis
Lee’s win followed months of political chaos after conservative President Yoon Suk-yeol’s stunning December imposition of martial law—later overturned by lawmakers who impeached him. Exit polls had long signaled Lee’s advantage amid public fury over the constitutional crisis.
Policy Challenges Ahead
The president-elect faces immediate tests:
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Foreign Policy: Balancing U.S. alliances against Trump’s tariffs and North Korea’s nuclear threats
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Domestic Agenda: Delivering on pledges to combat inequality, revive the economy, and bridge political divides
Though critics historically questioned Lee’s stance toward China and North Korea, he has consistently emphasized the U.S. alliance as “foundational.” Experts caution significant breakthroughs on trade or denuclearization remain unlikely regardless of leadership.
Unifying pledge
Addressing thousands of supporters in Seoul before results were formalized, Lee avoided a victory claim but outlined his vision: “Let us move forward with hope from this moment. Those who opposed us remain fellow citizens of the Republic of Korea.”
He takes office Wednesday for a single five-year term, succeeding Yoon’s ousted administration with promises to tackle corruption and economic disparity forged during his own impoverished upbringing.
