seniorspectrumnewspaper – Before December 2024, Lee Jae-myung faced numerous obstacles in his bid for South Korea’s presidency. He was entangled in legal battles involving corruption charges and accusations of abusing power. These controversies threatened to derail his second run for the top office. However, a constitutional crisis triggered by former president Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed attempt to declare martial law dramatically shifted the political landscape. That night marked a turning point, clearing a path for Lee to emerge as the leading candidate. Despite a conviction for making false statements during his 2022 campaign, Lee’s popularity surged. Yet, these legal troubles continue to loom, threatening to undermine his political ambitions. This reversal of fortune underscores the volatile and unpredictable nature of South Korea’s political arena.
From Humble Beginnings to Political Outsider
Lee’s background contrasts sharply with South Korea’s traditional political elite. Born in 1963 in a poor mountain village, Lee’s childhood was marked by hardship and early entry into the workforce. After suffering a serious factory injury at age 13, he later pursued education with determination, eventually passing the bar exam. He worked as a human rights lawyer before entering politics in 2005. His rise through the ranks of the Democratic Party came with a reputation as a reformist and outsider. Lee’s progressive policies, including a pledge for universal basic income, won him support among working-class voters but also created sharp divisions. His blunt and aggressive style has made him both a champion for the disenfranchised and a target of criticism.
Controversies and Scandals Shadow Lee’s Career
Throughout his career, Lee has faced multiple scandals that shaped public perception. From a 2004 drink-driving incident to allegations of personal misconduct, these controversies challenged his image in a conservative society. More serious are the recent legal cases accusing him of corruption related to a land development project. A pivotal moment was his conviction for making false statements during the 2021 presidential debate, which prosecutors argued violated election laws. Though an appeals court briefly cleared him, the Supreme Court overturned the ruling. Beyond legal troubles, Lee survived a near-fatal stabbing attack in early 2024, highlighting the deep political polarization gripping South Korea. This violence reflected the intense rivalry between Lee and his opponents and the increasing hostility in political discourse.
The Constitutional Crisis and Yoon Suk Yeol’s Downfall
In December 2024, former president Yoon Suk Yeol’s attempt to impose martial law backfired spectacularly. He claimed the move aimed to root out “anti-state forces” but instead triggered mass protests and political chaos. Lee rallied public opposition, urging protests that successfully blocked Yoon’s order. The Democratic Party’s push to impeach Yoon culminated in a unanimous Constitutional Court decision to remove him from office in April 2025. This crisis dismantled Yoon’s presidency and weakened his party, the People Power Party (PPP). Meanwhile, Lee capitalized on the turmoil to solidify his standing as the Democratic Party’s presidential candidate. His leadership during the crisis helped him win overwhelming support in the party primary, positioning him as the frontrunner in the June election.
Future Uncertainty Amid Legal Battles and Political Challenges
Despite his rise, Lee’s future remains uncertain. If his current convictions are upheld, he could lose his seat in the National Assembly and face a five-year ban from running for president. However, courts have allowed him to delay legal hearings until after the election, opening the possibility of winning the presidency before any final judgment. This situation could prolong political instability in South Korea, which has already endured months of upheaval. Lee’s controversial career, combined with unresolved legal issues, suggests the country’s leadership struggles may continue beyond the election. The coming months will test both his political resilience and South Korea’s democratic stability.
