Understanding South Korea’s 2025 Presidential Election – A New Chapter Begins

Lee Jae-myung wins South Korea's 2025 presidential election. Learn what this means for Korea and the world.

South Korea has entered a new political era with the conclusion of its 2025 presidential election, held on June 3, 2025. The election, watched closely both at home and abroad, resulted in a pivotal victory for Lee Jae-myung, the candidate of the liberal Democratic Party of Korea. This post offers international readers a clear and concise understanding of the election process, the major players, and what the results could mean for South Korea and the broader global community.

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Contents

• How South Korea Elects Its President
• Who Is Lee Jae-myung?
• The Main Opponents and Political Landscape
• What This Means for the World
• Challenges Ahead
• Controversies and Criticism Surrounding Lee Jae-myung
• Final Thoughts
• FAQs

1. How South Korea Elects Its President

South Korea holds presidential elections every five years. The process is based on a direct popular vote, where citizens over the age of 18 cast ballots. The winner is determined in a single-round, first-past-the-post system.

In 2025, voter turnout exceeded 79%, demonstrating South Korea’s strong civic engagement.

2. Who Is Lee Jae-myung?

Lee Jae-myung, a prominent politician, was previously Governor of Gyeonggi Province and ran in the 2022 election. His 2025 victory marked a comeback and a shift toward progressive leadership.

Key policy focuses:

• Economic fairness and reform
• Universal basic income experimentation
• Commitment to social equity and climate policies

3. The Main Opponents and Political Landscape

Top 3 candidates in the 2025 election:

• Lee Jae-myung (Democratic Party): 49.42%
• Kim Moon-soo (People Power Party): 41.15%
• Lee Jun-seok (New Conservative Bloc): 8.34%

The result indicates continued political polarization, despite the liberal victory.

4. What This Means for the World

• U.S.-Korea relations: Likely to remain strong, with potential emphasis on Korean autonomy.
• North Korea policy: More open to engagement and dialogue.
• Tech and Trade: Focus on digital transformation, green industry, and AI.

5. Challenges Ahead

Major domestic issues for Lee’s administration:

• Slowing economic growth
• Youth unemployment
• Aging society
• Housing affordability
• Regional geopolitical tensions

6. Controversies and Criticism Surrounding Lee Jae-myung

6.1. Ongoing Legal Investigations

• Allegations from real estate scandals (e.g., Daejang-dong)
• Claims of misuse of power and campaign violations

Lee denies all accusations and no convictions have been made to date.

6.2. Polarizing Persona

Lee’s direct communication is praised by some but criticized for being divisive or populist by others.

6.3. Economic Feasibility of Promises

Critics question how universal income programs will be funded sustainably without adding fiscal strain.

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7. FAQs

Q1: When was the 2025 South Korean presidential election held?
A1: On June 3, 2025.

Q2: Who won the 2025 presidential election?
A2: Lee Jae-myung (Democratic Party) with 49.42% of the vote.

Q3: What are some challenges facing the new president?
A3: Economic stagnation, housing prices, youth job market, and foreign relations.

Q4: Has Lee Jae-myung been involved in controversies?
A4: Yes. He faces ongoing legal scrutiny but no convictions.

Q5: How might global relations change?
A5: Expect a diplomatic approach to North Korea and expanded international tech cooperation.

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8. Final Thoughts

This election ushers in a new direction for South Korea. With Lee Jae-myung's leadership, the nation may navigate toward progressive reforms and increased engagement on the global stage.