Lee Jae-myung Wins Snap Presidential Election in South Korea Amid Political Turmoil
In a significant turn of events, Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party has emerged victorious in South Korea’s snap presidential election, just six months after the nation faced a brief period of martial law. Speaking at a press conference prior to the official announcement of results, Mr. Lee emphasized his commitment to national unity, stating, "Let us move forward with hope and make a fresh start from this moment on." He acknowledged that, despite past differences, all citizens of the Republic of Korea are part of the same community.
Kim Moon Soo, the candidate from the conservative People Power Party (PPP), graciously accepted the election results, congratulating Mr. Lee on his win. With approximately 95% of votes counted, Mr. Lee secured 48.86% of the votes, while Mr. Kim garnered 41.98%. An earlier exit poll from three major South Korean broadcasters indicated Mr. Lee at 51.7% and Mr. Kim at 39.3%.
This election comes on the heels of a tumultuous six months for South Korea, which saw the nation thrown into crisis when former president Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on December 3. The declaration led to violent clashes between police and protesters, prompting troops to enter the National Assembly building. However, Mr. Yoon reversed his decision just six hours later. Subsequently, he was impeached, and the constitutional court upheld his dismissal in April, ruling he had violated his duties as commander-in-chief.
Lee Jae-myung, a former human rights lawyer, is set to be sworn in as president immediately for a full five-year term, bypassing the typical two-month transition period. He previously referred to the snap election as "judgment day" against the martial law decision, criticizing the PPP for failing to oppose Mr. Yoon’s actions more vigorously.
Park Chan-dae, acting leader of the Democratic Party, spoke to KBS, stating that "the people made a fiery judgment against the insurrection regime." This election marks a pivotal moment in South Korea’s political landscape as the nation looks towards a hopeful future under new leadership.
Stay tuned for more updates as Lee Jae-myung takes the reins of power and begins his presidency in a time of healing and unity for South Korea.
