SEOUL — Lee Jae-myung, a liberal politician advocating economic parity and improved ties with North Korea, secured the main opposition Democratic Party’s nomination for president on Sunday, solidifying his status as the front-runner to succeed ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol.
Lee, a former Democratic Party chief, led the impeachment of Yoon following the imposition of martial law in December. The Constitutional Court formally dismissed Yoon earlier this month, triggering a snap presidential election scheduled for June 3.
In a televised announcement, the Democratic Party said Lee won nearly 90% of the votes cast in the primary, defeating two competitors. "The people and our party colleagues gave me an opportunity to win back the presidency and build a new Republic of Korea," Lee said in a victory speech to cheering supporters.
Lee, 60, previously served as governor of Gyeonggi Province and mayor of Seongnam city. He is the clear favorite to win, with a Gallup Korea poll showing 38% support, while conservative candidates from the People Power Party collectively garnered 23%.
This marks Lee’s third presidential bid. He narrowly lost to Yoon in 2022 and finished third in the Democratic Party primary in 2017.
Seen as an anti-establishment figure, Lee has built a reputation as a reformer targeting inequality and corruption. Critics, however, accuse him of populism and fear his leadership could deepen political divisions. He currently faces five ongoing corruption trials, which would be suspended if he assumes the presidency due to immunity protections.
Lee's rise comes as conservatives struggle to recover from the fallout of Yoon’s martial law decree, which fractured the People Power Party and alienated voters. Analysts say the election will serve as a public judgment on Yoon’s actions.
Lee has shifted his focus to economic issues, pledging to support small businesses and address wealth disparities. He also called for a new approach to relations with North Korea, emphasizing that peace is essential for South Korea’s existence and prosperity. — Agencies
