South Korea‘s opposition leader Lee Jae-myung announced his presidential candidacy on Thursday, claiming his commitment to address inequality and boost economic development.
The presidential election is scheduled for June 3, following the impeachment confirmation of former president Yoon Suk Yeol, who had declared martial law in December.
Through a Thursday announcement quoted by Reuters, Lee addressed economic disparity as a fundamental cause of social discord, noting its role in intensifying recent political instability following Yoon’s martial law implementation. Lee, positioning himself as a practical leader, emphasised that a policy’s effectiveness matters more than its originator.
While conservative opponents suggest the opposition might weaken US relations and jeopardise Japanese diplomatic progress, Lee maintained his practical diplomatic stance, stating: “Realistically speaking, the South Korea-US alliance is important, and South Korea, US Japan cooperation is important. Within that, the consistent principle is the national interest of the Republic of Korea is the top priority.”
At 61, Lee had experienced a narrow defeat against Yoon in the 2022 presidential election. However, he subsequently led his liberal Democratic Party to significant parliamentary victory and maintains strong liberal support. He resigned from his opposition leadership role on Wednesday to concentrate on his election campaign.
An April 4 Gallup poll showed Lee leading with 34% support, whilst conservative candidate Kim Moon-soo, the 73-year-old former labour minister, received 9%. The conservative presidential nomination remains competitive, with the ruling People Power Party planning to select its candidate through May primaries.
