Lee Jae-myung: From Factory Floor to Presidential Hopeful Amidst Crisis

Lee Jae-myung, rising South Korean presidential hopeful, overcame humble beginnings and scandals, amidst political turmoil and assassination attempt, faces uncertain legal battles.

• Lee Jae-myung's Rise: Lee Jae-myung has emerged as a frontrunner for South Korea's presidency after a constitutional crisis involving former President Yoon Suk Yeol's attempt to invoke martial law.

• Controversial Figure: Lee is a divisive figure due to his rags-to-riches story and bullish political style. He is seen as an outsider who challenges the status quo with progressive reform attempts.

• Humble Origins: Born in a mountain village in 1963, Lee worked as a factory worker after skipping middle school due to his family's circumstances. He suffered an industrial accident at age 13, permanently injuring his arm. He later studied law on a full scholarship and became a human rights lawyer.

• Political Career: Lee was elected mayor of Seongnam in 2010 and governor of Gyeonggi Province in 2018. He gained acclaim for his response to the Covid-19 pandemic, advocating for universal relief grants. He lost the 2022 presidential election by a narrow margin.

• Scandals: Lee's career has been marred by scandals, including a drink driving incident, disputes with relatives, and allegations of an extramarital affair. He also faces ongoing legal cases related to corruption and false statements during his last presidential campaign.

• Assassination Attempt: In January 2024, Lee survived a stabbing attack. He now campaigns behind bulletproof glass and wears a bulletproof vest.

• Political Polarization: The attack highlighted the deepening political polarization in South Korea. Some claim Lee fueled this problem by blocking motions by Yoon's government.

• Opportunity in Crisis: Yoon's declaration of martial law served as a catalyst for Lee's emergence as a leading presidential candidate. Lee protested the declaration and helped pass a resolution to lift martial law. Yoon was later impeached.

• Legal Battles: Lee's legal troubles continue, with a verdict pending on charges of making false statements. If convicted, he could be barred from running for president.

• Future Uncertain: The courts approved Lee's request to postpone his legal hearings until after the election, raising the possibility that he could be convicted after winning the presidency