Lee Jae-myung Wins Democratic Party Primary for South Korea Presidency

Lee Jae-myung has secured the Democratic Party's nomination for South Korea's June 3 snap presidential election, following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol. Lee, a former governor and Democratic Party leader, won the primary with nearly 90% of the vote and currently leads opinion polls by a significant margin over conservative rivals. His campaign has highlighted plans to strengthen national defense and transform South Korea into a global leader in technology and culture, while also emphasizing unity and overcoming political crisis. Lee played a key role in the impeachment process against Yoon, particularly during the controversial martial law declaration in December. Despite his strong anti-establishment reputation and a focus on economic equality, Lee's candidacy is marked by ongoing legal challenges, including several criminal trials. His recent campaign has notably shifted toward the political center, with less emphasis than in the past on engagement with North Korea.