Lee Jae-myung has made history with his election to South Korean Presidency after winning in a groundbreaking political shift on June 3rd 2025 through a snap election held June 3rd 2025. The vote came about following Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment for abruptly imposing martial law December 24th, which drew widespread condemnation. [en.wikipedia.org/ +13 (CBSNews) Lee won 49.42% of nearly 35 million votes cast, narrowly defeating conservative rival Kim Moon-soo who garnered 41.15%. Voter turnout reached 79.38% – its highest since 1997 – reflecting voter engagement as South Koreans sought peace after months of political unrest. Time.com; Reuter’s; ChannelNewsAsia.com, The Guardian and Reuters reported results here Lee spoke outside the National Assembly after winning, declaring it to be “judgment day” against Yoon’s martial law decree and pledged to restore democratic order. Lee declared his first mission would be “definitively overcoming insurrection and making sure there will never again be another military coup with guns and swords turned against its people,” according to CBSNews.com (reuters.com is listed separately). cbsnews.com (+10) for coverage reuters ( +10 for coverage) for coverage by cbsnews (cbsnews) Lee’s rise to power marks an historic turnaround after narrowly losing out in 2022 elections to Yoon. A former human rights attorney and labor activist, he has long been known for advocating social welfare programs and economic reform initiatives within South Korean politics. Elpais.com; Wikipedia and Reuter’s are providing further details. Background to this election was Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law on December 3rd 2024 for perceived threats to national security, resulting in mass protests and swift impeachment by National Assembly; after hearings by Constitutional Court it was upheld leading up to snap election scheduled on April 13th 2025, creating the opportunity for snap poll. En.wikipedia.org Whilst Reuter’s reported that an unprecedented 6 months was granted. For further reading click on each link above or just head directly here Lee’s administration faces immediate challenges, such as economic recovery in an environment of global protectionist trends and frayed relations with key allies. He has expressed an intent to negotiate new trade terms with the United States regarding tariffs which have hit South Korean steel and automotive industries hard. For more information, see The Guardian (theguardian.com), Reuter’s (reuters.com) or Financial Times (FT).com On foreign policy, Lee advocates for a balanced approach, maintaining strong ties with both America and China while seeking improved relations with North Korea and North Korea. He has stressed the importance of diplomacy to reduce regional tensions; signaling his readiness to engage in dialogue with North Korea when necessary (sources: time.com; reuters.com and apnews.com). Domestically, Lee seeks to address economic disparities by implementing reforms which benefit small businesses and low-income families. His policy agenda includes increased welfare spending as well as regulatory oversight over large conglomerates to create an equitable economic environment. time.com Lee will be inaugurated as president on June 4th with an abbreviated ceremony held at the National Assembly. As he assumes office, South Koreans look to his leadership to help address complex challenges ahead and restore trust in democratic institutions across South Korea.
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