Who is Lee Jae-myung?

Lee Jae-myung is the President of South Korea, having taken office on June 4, 2025. Here's a simple breakdown of his life and career:

Early Life

• Born: December 22, 1964, in Andong, South Korea.
• Background: Grew up in a poor family and worked in factories as a child.
• Education: Studied law at Chung-Ang University and became a human rights lawyer.

Political Career

• Mayor of Seongnam: 2010–2018.
• Governor of Gyeonggi Province: 2018–2021.
• Leader of the Democratic Party: 2022–2025.
• President of South Korea: Elected in 2025.

Key Events

• Assassination Attempt: In January 2024, Lee was stabbed in the neck during a public event but survived. (en.wikipedia.org)
• Presidential Election: Won the 2025 election with 49.42% of the vote, becoming the 14th President of South Korea. (reuters.com)

Policies and Goals

• Social Reforms: Plans to increase welfare spending and regulate large companies. (time.com)
• Economic Focus: Aims to boost the economy by supporting small businesses and addressing cost-of-living issues. (reuters.com)
• Foreign Relations: Seeks to improve ties with the U.S., Japan, and North Korea through diplomacy. (apnews.com)

Personal Life

• Family: Married to Kim Hye-kyung since 1991; they have two children. (en.wikipedia.org)
• Disability: Has a disability in his arm due to a childhood injury.

Lee Jae-myung's journey from a challenging childhood to the presidency showcases his dedication to public service and reform.