SEOUL, June 3 – In a dramatic turn of events that has reshaped South Korea’s political landscape, liberal leader Lee Jae-myung secured a decisive victory in the country’s snap presidential election. His election follows months of political unrest triggered by former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s imposition of martial law, an unprecedented move that ultimately led to his impeachment and removal from office.
Tuesday’s vote marked exactly six months since Lee famously defied military barriers to cast his ballot against Yoon’s martial law decree — an act seen by many as a turning point in the country’s democratic struggle. With nearly 80% voter turnout, the highest since 1997, citizens responded with a clear message: a call for accountability and a demand for political change.
A Landmark Victory and Public Rejection of Martial Rule
With over 99% of ballots counted, Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party led with 49.3% of the vote, surpassing his conservative rival Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party (PPP), who garnered 41.3%. Following the confirmation of results, a somber Kim conceded the race and offered brief congratulations to the new president-elect.
Lee’s victory is seen as a reflection of public outrage over the recent authoritarian episode, which saw Yoon declare martial law on December 3 in response to escalating protests and political dissent. That decision sent shockwaves through the nation, leading to widespread demonstrations, legal challenges, and deepening divisions. The public response was swift and fierce, culminating in Yoon’s impeachment by a parliament led by Lee’s Democratic Party and his subsequent ousting by the Constitutional Court in April.
The period that followed was chaotic, marked by three acting presidents, criminal trials, and accusations of betrayal against key officials who stood by Yoon. Lee’s triumph is not merely a personal win but a symbolic one — a signal that South Koreans have rejected authoritarianism in favor of democratic resilience.
Lee Promises National Unity and Economic Recovery
Addressing a jubilant crowd outside the National Assembly in Seoul, Lee expressed gratitude and emphasized his commitment to national healing and progress. He stated that the nation could rise above the current challenges through the collective strength and resilience of its people, emphasizing his commitment to unity and accountable leadership.
Lee also vowed to focus on economic revival, innovation, and maintaining stability on the Korean Peninsula. He reiterated his commitment to engage North Korea diplomatically while maintaining strength and readiness. On foreign relations, Lee is expected to take a more balanced approach toward China and continue practical cooperation with Japan, while reinforcing ties with long-standing ally, the United States.
The president-elect also promised increased support for working-class families and broader equity in public policy. His platform emphasized investment in technology, small businesses, and education reforms, with a vision of building a fairer, more inclusive economy.
While both candidates acknowledged the need for structural change in South Korea’s aging political and economic models, Lee’s approach leaned toward strengthening public welfare and transparency, whereas Kim advocated deregulation and business incentives.
Public Sentiment and the Demand for Justice
Many South Koreans saw this election as a defining moment — a reckoning with a government they felt had betrayed its democratic principles. Citizens like 55-year-old science teacher Choi Mi-jeong, who stood in front of the parliament to witness Lee’s post-election speech, expressed hope for a government that truly serves the people. “I stood here on December 3 when martial law was announced, and returned when Yoon was removed from office. Now Lee Jae-myung is becoming president. I hope he supports ordinary people, not the elite or the wealthy few.”
The emotional toll of the martial law period is evident in the nation’s mood. Elderly voter Kim Kwang-ma, 81, described the economic and social decline felt over the past six months. “We’ve become so divided. All I want is for Korea to stand together again and thrive as a nation.”
The new administration is inheriting a deeply polarized society. The political crisis exposed fractures not only between parties but also among citizens — between progressives and conservatives, youth and older generations, and urban and rural populations. The next president will need to navigate these divisions carefully to restore trust in government institutions.
A Future Without Authoritarian Shadows
Lee’s election victory signals a return to democratic norms, but it also underscores the fragility of those norms when tested. The need for political reform is clear, and many believe that without accountability and transparency, the events of the past months could repeat.
Though Lee’s platform did not heavily emphasize gender equality or minority rights, many young voters, especially women, noted the lack of representation and inclusivity in this year’s political dialogue. “There were no female candidates, and barely any mention of policies for women,” said Kwon Seo-hyun, an 18-year-old university student and first-time voter who took part in anti-martial law protests.
Despite these criticisms, Lee’s victory has ignited a sense of hope among those disillusioned by recent turmoil. His challenge now is to prove that his leadership can match the historic responsibility placed upon him by the people.
With official results set to be certified by the National Election Commission on Wednesday morning, and the inauguration just hours later, South Korea stands at a new crossroads — one shaped not by military power, but by the collective voice of its citizens demanding justice, democracy, and reform.