SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung has officially announced his candidacy for the presidential by-election, following the recent removal of President Yoon Suk Yeol, which has created a politically charged atmosphere in the nation. Lee, who led the liberal Democratic Party's campaign to oust Yoon, lost narrowly in the 2022 election. He is now positioned as the frontrunner in the upcoming June 3 election and has stepped down as the party's chairman to focus on his campaign.
In a video message, Lee emphasized the need for healing a divided nation through economic growth. He argued that Yoon's declaration of martial law in December revealed deep divisions within South Korean society, primarily caused by an expanding rich-poor gap. Lee's platform focuses on aggressive government spending to boost economic growth and reduce income polarization, stating, “With economic growth rates declining worldwide, it has become difficult to maintain and develop an economy solely on the strength of the private sector.”
Lee proposes that robust government involvement in talent development and investments in technological research are essential for revitalizing the economy. He also recognizes the importance of maintaining strong ties with the United States and pursuing trilateral cooperation with Japan while prioritizing South Korea's national interests in all decisions.
Lee Jae-myung has an extensive political background, having served as a lawmaker, provincial governor, and city mayor. He is notable for his charismatic and outspoken style, which endears him to supporters. However, his critics label him a populist who exacerbates divisions and lacks practical solutions for funding his ambitious proposals. Lee is currently facing legal challenges, including five different trials related to corruption and other criminal charges.
The political landscape is tumultuous for the conservative People Power Party (PPP), which has been left in disarray following Yoon's impeachment. Approximately ten politicians are expected to pursue their nominations, reflecting a split between Yoon loyalists and reformists advocating for a new direction. Kweon Seong-dong, the PPP's floor leader and a Yoon supporter, has warned that under Lee’s leadership, the nation could face greater division, fueled by a punitive approach to governance.
Following the Constitutional Court's ruling that upheld Yoon's impeachment, a presidential by-election must be held within 60 days. The next president will assume responsibilities for a full five-year term. Key figures within the PPP, such as former leader Han Dong-hoon, who leads the anti-Yoon faction, are also expected to announce their presidential bids soon, alongside other notable candidates including former Labor Minister Kim Moon Soo, who is seen as pro-Yoon.
Current contenders for the conservative nomination also include Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo and Ahn Cheol-soo, a senior PPP lawmaker. Ahn is a veteran in the political arena, having run for president three times in the past. Additionally, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon is anticipated to enter the race later on.
As the political landscape evolves rapidly, Lee Jae-myung’s bold stance and campaigning efforts will be put to the test, especially amid rising public scrutiny and ongoing legal challenges. The upcoming presidential by-election is set to be a crucial event in South Korea’s political future, reflecting the nation's diverse opinions and deep-seated divides.
