From Rags to Riches: Lee Jae-myung's Journey to the Presidency
- by Bettina Sengling
- 4 Min
- South Korea
- Lee Jae-myung
- Kim Jong-un
- North Korea
- Military coup
- Corruption
- Presidency
- Russia
Today, Lee Jae-myung may be elected as South Korea's next President. - South Korea's Presidential Elections: Lee Jee-myung on track to assume presidency today
Lee Jae-myung, the current president of South Korea, is a man who knows a thing or two about hardship. Born into a poor family, he worked on factory assembly lines while his peers were in middle school. This humble beginning instilled in him a deep commitment to addressing poverty and inequality[1]. Before diving into the thick of politics, Lee spent his days as a lawyer.
Climbing the Political Ladder
Lee's political prowess came into the limelight when he became the mayor of Seongnam from 2010 to 2014, and again from 2014 to 2018. In this role, he outdid himself with his forward-thinking welfare policies. He funded the construction of the Seongnam Medical Center, implemented a free school uniforms program, and introduced a youth dividend system which acted as a form of Universal Basic Income for young citizens[2]. To top it off, he made headlines by banning dog meat sales and closing down dog slaughterhouses in Moran Market, a testament to his dedication to animal rights[2].
National Politics and Beyond
Lee's interest in national politics started bubbling in 2022, when he threw his hat in the presidential ring, only to come up short. But when his conservative opposition, President Yoon Suk Yeol, found himself in hot water with impeachment charges and legal challenges, Lee saw his chance[1]. And he took it. With his second run for the presidency in 2025, Lee claimed the top post and became the president of South Korea[2].
A Modern-Day Robin Hood
A liberal at heart, Lee has made his mark pushing progressive policies, championing welfare for the less fortunate, and advocating for immigrant rights[2]. He criticizes conservative immigration policies for overemphasizing labor at the expense of human rights for foreign workers[2]. Lee's political career is defined by his unwavering determination to help people and his ability to overcome adversity[1].
New Challenges Ahead
As president, Lee is up against some hefty challenges. Tackling international relations, particularly tariffs with the U.S., and domestic issues such as labor rights and economic policies are top on his to-do list[1]. Lee's presidency ushers in a new era in South Korea's political landscape, with a focus on progressive policies and social welfare. The road ahead might be long and winding, but this modern-day Robin Hood is ready to take it on.
- Lee's political policies, rooted in his desire to alleviate poverty and inequality, are reminiscent of the politics typically associated with progressive movements, reflecting his status as a modern-day Robin Hood.
- In the realm of general-news, discussions about the community policy and employment policy of the Lee Jae-myung administration in South Korea are of significant interest, given his commitment to welfare and addressing the needs of the less fortunate.
