Lee Jae-myung, the newly elected president of South Korea, has a story that resonates with many. Growing up in poverty, he often reflects on his challenging childhood as the driving force behind his political ambitions. Lee’s journey from a factory worker to the presidency is not just a personal triumph but a narrative that speaks to the struggles of ordinary South Koreans.
In his previous presidential campaign, Lee often shared memories of his youth. He recalled how his family’s financial struggles forced him to work in factories while his peers were in school. His mother would walk him to work, holding his hand, a vivid reminder of their hardships. Lee has stated, “Behind every policy that I implemented was my own impoverished and abject life, the everyday struggles of ordinary South Koreans.” This perspective has shaped his political vision: to create a society that offers hope and support to those still trapped in poverty.
Lee’s recent victory comes after a tumultuous political landscape. He lost the previous election by a narrow margin of just 0.73 percent, or about 247,000 votes. The political climate shifted dramatically when his opponent, former President Yoon Suk Yeol, was impeached for declaring martial law. Yoon is currently facing trial for insurrection, which set the stage for Lee’s comeback.
In the recent snap election, Lee secured his position as president, with major broadcasters announcing his victory shortly before midnight. His campaign focused on restoring democratic norms in South Korea and emphasized the need for a safety net for the most vulnerable citizens. Lee has promised to provide a “thick safety mat” for those struggling, a concept that has evolved from his own experiences.
Born in December 1963, Lee was the fifth of seven siblings. His family moved to Seongnam, a city near Seoul, in 1976, where they lived in a cramped semi-basement room. His father worked as a cleaner, and at times, Lee scavenged for food. He began working at the age of 13, taking on various factory jobs, which included soldering jewelry and operating machinery. A workplace accident left him with a permanent injury, leading him to a dark moment in his life when he attempted suicide. Fortunately, he was saved by a pharmacist who recognized his intentions.
Despite these hardships, Lee excelled academically, earning a scholarship to Chung-Ang University to study law. His career began in human rights activism, inspired by a lecture from Roh Moo-hyun, who would later become president. Lee’s commitment to social justice deepened as he witnessed the struggles of his community.
As the mayor of Seongnam from 2010 to 2018, Lee implemented several welfare programs, including free school lunches and financial support for new mothers. He also established a public hospital, fulfilling a promise that had initially motivated his entry into politics.
Lee’s policies have garnered both support and criticism. While his welfare initiatives have been praised, opponents argue they are merely populist strategies. Critics have also targeted his record, alleging involvement in various legal issues, which he claims are politically motivated attacks.
As president, Lee faces the challenge of uniting a divided nation and addressing the pressing issues that lie ahead, including economic reforms and international relations, particularly with the United States. His background and experiences will undoubtedly influence his approach to governance, as he strives to create a more equitable society for all South Koreans.