Lee Jae-myung, the head of South Korea’s main opposition Democratic Party, announced he was stepping down as party leader on Wednesday. He made this announcement during a party leadership meeting streamed live on his YouTube channel. “I will be now starting new work,” Lee said, without giving specific details or confirming whether he would run for president. However, many expect him to enter the race soon.
Lee Jae-myung, 61, previously ran for president in 2022 and lost to Yoon Suk Yeol by the narrowest margin in South Korean history. Last year, he led his party to a major victory in the parliamentary elections, boosting his political momentum.
Presidential Election Scheduled for June 3
South Korea will hold its next presidential election on June 3. The election comes after the Constitutional Court upheld former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment. His removal followed a controversial martial law declaration in December.
Labour Minister Kim Moon-soon Joins the Race
On the same day Lee stepped down, Labour Minister Kim Moon-soon announced his presidential candidacy. Kim is a conservative figure from the ruling People Power Party and has consistently supported Yoon. He called for the ex-president’s reinstatement and is currently leading among conservative contenders, although he trails Lee in two-way polls.
Kim Focuses on Security and Nuclear Ambitions
Kim outlined his key goals, emphasizing national security and South Korea’s global position. He said, “In response to North Korea’s nuclear threat, I will become a global leader in protecting freedom and human rights by securing nuclear fuel processing capabilities and developing nuclear-powered submarines.” He also stressed strengthening ties with the United States while exploring nuclear reprocessing—an area linked to potential weapons development.
Ruling Party Faces Divided Field
Unlike Lee’s Democratic Party, the ruling People Power Party has multiple candidates eyeing the presidency. Apart from Kim, other hopefuls include the mayor of Seoul. This crowded field contrasts with Lee’s position as the clear populist front-runner for the liberals.
As the race heats up, both parties are preparing for a high-stakes election that could reshape South Korea’s political landscape.
