Unabashed, Uncensored Report: Lee Jae-myung's Legal Woe
High Court reinstates charges against Lee Jae-myung, leading to a second trial
Meet Lee Jae-myung, the fiery leader of South Korea's Democratic Party and the current front-runner in the presidential race. But his path to the ballot isn't smooth sailing—he's entangled in an election law violation case that could shake the very foundation of his political career.
The Heat Is OnLee is amidst allegations that he peddled falsehoods during his 2018 run for the governorship of Gyeonggi Province. If found guilty, these actions could bar him from this June's election, instigated by the ousting of former President Yoon Suk-yeol.
Judiciary's DecreeOn May 1, 2025, South Korea's Supreme Court handed down a damning verdict, ruling that Lee had violated election laws by spreading falsities[2][3]. The case was sent back to the Seoul High Court for a final decision, in sync with the Supreme Court's judgment[3][4].
Timeline of TurmoilLegal experts predict the retrial could drag on for months, possibly wrapping up after the June 3 vote[1][3]. If convicted post-election, Lee risks losing his National Assembly seat and facing a 10-year ban from political office[3][4].
Political RumbleAmidst the clamor, the Democratic Party sticks by Lee's eligibility, while the conservative People Power Party demands his withdrawal[1][4]. The accelerated court timeline—rare under the judiciary’s "633 rule"—is an attempt to dodge accusations of election manipulation[1].
A post-election conviction could void Lee's presidency if he clinches the vote, but an immediate disqualification now seems unlikely[1][3]. This saga echoes the strife that has engulfed the country after months of tumult over Yoon's martial law declaration and ouster[2].
[Source 1, Source 2, Source 3, Source 4]
- The editorial on the current political situation in South Korea expresses concern over the allegations against Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party's presidential candidate, regarding the spreading of falsehoods during his 2018 run for the governorship.
- The justice system's recent judgment, delivered by the Supreme Court on May 1, 2025, has found Lee guilty of violating election laws.
- As a result of the Supreme Court's verdict, a retrial has been initiated at the Seoul High Court, and legal experts predict this process could stretch for months, potentially concluding after the June 3 election.
- If Lee is found guilty after the election, he may face consequences such as losing his National Assembly seat and a 10-year ban from political office.
- The Democratic Party resolutely supports Lee's eligibility in the presidential race, whereas the conservative People Power Party insists on his withdrawal.
- The accelerated trial timeline, deemed unusual under the "633 rule," has been iused as an effort to avoid accusations of election manipulation, amidst the ongoing political conflict in South Korea.
