Who Is Lee Jae-myung? South Korea’s New President and His Vision for Change

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In June 2025, South Korea entered a new chapter of its democratic history. Lee Jae-myung, a seasoned progressive politician and former human rights lawyer, was elected as the 21st President of the Republic of Korea, promising to revitalize the economy and restore democratic values after a turbulent political period.

So who is Lee Jae-myung, and what kind of changes can we expect from his administration?

Lee JaeMyung

👤 From Factory Worker to President: A Brief Background

Lee Jae-myung was born in 1964 into a poor farming family. In his youth, he worked in a factory under harsh conditions, which resulted in permanent physical impairments. Despite these challenges, he studied on his own, passed the bar exam, and became a human rights lawyer. His personal story—rising from poverty to the nation’s highest office—is a central part of his public image.

Lee began his political career as mayor of Seongnam (2010–2018), where he gained attention for introducing universal school uniforms and youth basic income programs. As Governor of Gyeonggi Province (2018–2021), he pushed forward with experimental welfare and economic policies. Although he narrowly lost the 2022 presidential race, Lee remained a prominent figure and was later elected to parliament and led the main opposition Democratic Party.

His decisive role in defending democratic institutions during the 2024 martial law crisis—where he physically intervened to protect the National Assembly—boosted his public image and helped secure his 2025 electoral victory.

📌 10 Key Pledges from Lee Jae-myung’s Presidential Campaign

Lee’s campaign emphasized economic revitalization, democratic restoration, and social equity. Below is a snapshot of his major policy pledges:

Policy Area Key Promises
Economy Large-scale investments in AI, semiconductors, and content industries; expansionary fiscal policy
Democracy Reform of prosecutorial powers, citizens’ right to recall lawmakers, checks on executive power
Welfare Expanded child benefits (up to age 18), public caregiving systems, elderly care support
Labor Gradual move toward a 4.5-day workweek, elimination of exploitative wage systems
Housing Mass housing supply with a focus on public rentals and first-time buyers
Environment Full coal phase-out by 2040, creation of 100% renewable industrial zones
Small Business Debt forgiveness for pandemic-hit self-employed, digital platform fee regulations
Healthcare Legalization of telemedicine, public hospital expansion, essential drug supply management
Regional Balance Relocation of key government functions to Sejong City, second wave of public agency decentralization
Foreign Policy Balanced diplomacy between the U.S. and China, renewed inter-Korean engagement

🏛 Domestic Policy Direction: Balanced Growth with Fairness

Lee’s administration is expected to take a more interventionist role in the economy, focusing on inclusive growth and sustainability. Key domestic policies will likely include:

  • Active fiscal spending to stimulate the economy and support emerging industries

  • Universal social safety nets, especially for children, youth, and the elderly

  • Labor reforms, including shortened working hours and stronger union protections

  • Fairer housing policies, balancing homeownership support with anti-speculation measures

Compared to previous conservative governments, Lee’s presidency is set to emphasize equity, public welfare, and accountability.

🌐 Foreign Policy & North Korea: Pragmatic Engagement

Lee aims to maintain the U.S.–Korea alliance while also restoring ties with China and Russia, pursuing what he calls “balanced diplomacy”. His foreign policy will likely focus on:

  • Navigating U.S.-China tensions without compromising South Korea’s strategic autonomy

  • Rebuilding inter-Korean dialogue, with plans to resume summit diplomacy and economic cooperation

  • Pursuing a step-by-step denuclearization deal with North Korea in exchange for phased sanctions relief

  • Strengthening Korea’s voice on global issues such as climate change and regional security

While his approach may resemble that of former President Moon Jae-in, Lee is expected to be more cautious and pragmatic, especially given the return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency and heightened geopolitical uncertainties.

✍️ Final Thoughts

President Lee Jae-myung represents both continuity and change in South Korean politics. His life story resonates with many citizens who desire both economic opportunity and social justice. With a majority in parliament and strong public support, Lee is now poised to shape the country’s future over the next five years.

The world will be watching to see whether his ambitious plans will translate into meaningful change—and whether he can bridge the divides in a society that remains economically powerful but politically polarized.

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