Lee Jae-myung Wins South Korea Presidential Election

Advanced Level | June 4, 2025

✨ 혼자서 기사를 소리 내어 읽거나 튜터를 따라 각 단락을 반복해서 읽으세요. 레벨...

Lee Jae-myung Wins Election: A Decisive Victory in South Korean Politics

In a historic political return, Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party has officially won the election, marking a major Lee Jae-myung wins election moment. According to official results, Lee secured 49.42% of the vote (17.3 million votes), defeating Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, who earned 41.15%. This election was called after the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol in late 2024, following his controversial declaration of martial law.

Why Did Voters Choose Lee?

Lee campaigned on addressing economic inequality, rising housing costs, and youth unemployment. His message focused on restoring democratic norms and rebuilding public trust. Many younger and working-class voters were drawn to his promises to expand welfare programs and lower living costs. Despite facing ongoing legal issues—including bribery and corruption charges—Lee’s message of reform and justice resonated strongly with voters seeking change.

What Lee’s Victory Means for Korea

This win marks the Democratic Party’s return to power after a three-year conservative rule. Lee is expected to pursue progressive economic reforms, expand public housing, and seek renewed dialogue with North Korea. However, his ability to implement policy may be challenged by a politically divided National Assembly.

Global Reaction and Foreign Policy

International observers describe Lee as a pragmatic leader. In his inauguration speech, he emphasized the need for global trade stability and warned against rising protectionism. He also reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to trilateral cooperation with the U.S. and Japan, signaling no major shift in foreign alliances despite his left-leaning domestic agenda.

Why This Matters to You

Lee’s win shows how political shifts can happen quickly in response to public dissatisfaction, and this Lee Jae-myung wins election result reflects the changing sentiment in South Korean politics. It also highlights how storytelling, social media, and simple language can powerfully influence elections. For English learners, this article offers vocabulary and phrases connected to leadership, politics, and diplomacy.

Vocabulary

Comeback (noun): A return to success after a setback.
- Example: Lee’s political comeback followed a defeat in 2022.
Impeachment (noun): The process of removing a government official from office.
- Example: The election followed the impeachment of the former president.
Inequality (noun): The unfair difference in income or opportunity.
- Example: Lee focused on fighting economic inequality.
Welfare (noun): Government programs that support those in need.
- Example: His plan includes expanded welfare services.
Bribery (noun): The act of giving money for illegal influence.
- Example: Lee denies the bribery charges filed against him.
Reform (noun): Change made to improve systems.
- Example: He promised legal and housing reforms.
Trilateral (adjective): Involving three groups or countries.
- Example: He supports trilateral talks with the U.S. and Japan.
Martial law (noun): Military control over civilian functions.
- Example: The previous president declared martial law before his removal.
Protectionism (noun): Economic policy of restricting imports to protect local business.
- Example: Lee warned about the risks of rising protectionism.
Sentiment (noun): Public feelings or attitudes.
- Example: Voter sentiment strongly favored political change.

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

Why was this election held earlier than usual?
What were Lee Jae-myung’s main campaign promises?
How did legal controversies impact the election?
What international alliances does Lee plan to maintain?
What economic risks did Lee highlight in his speech?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

Have there been any political comebacks in your country?
How do economic issues influence elections?
Should leaders be removed from office for abusing power?
Do you think social media is a good tool for political campaigns?
What kind of reforms would help young people in your country?

Related Idiom

“Turn the tide”
Meaning: To change a situation for the better.
Example: Lee Jae-myung turned the tide after a narrow loss in 2022.

📢 Want more real-world English practice? Join the All About English Mastery Newsletter for weekly lessons, tips, and news you can use.

This article was inspired by reporting from:
The Guardian – June 3–4, 2025
Lee Jae-myung elected as South Korean president – exit polls
Lee warns global trade chaos threatens S. Korea