Lee Jae-myung: South Korea's Presidential Hopeful Among Time's 100 Influential of 2025

Synopsis

Lee Jae-myung, the frontrunner for South Korea's presidency, has made it to Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people of 2025, overcoming numerous challenges and gaining significant public support ahead of the June 3 election.

Key Takeaways

Lee Jae-myung recognized by Time magazine.
Former chief of the Democratic Party.
Grew up facing significant hardships.
Leading in Presidential race with 49% support.
Challenges ahead include North Korea and trade issues.

Washington, April (NationPress) South Korea's Presidential hopeful Lee Jae-myung has been recognized in Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people for 2025, as reported on Wednesday.

The magazine spotlighted Lee, a former leader of the Democratic Party, in the leaders' category, recounting the obstacles he faced throughout his early years and ascent in politics, dubbing him the "clear frontrunner" for the upcoming Presidential election on June 3.

Charlie Campbell, Editor at Large, highlighted Lee's challenging beginnings, mentioning that as the fifth child in a family of seven from a farming background, he trekked 10 miles to attend elementary school and suffered a wrist injury from a factory accident while underage.

The editor emphasized that Lee's political journey has been fraught with difficulties.

"After serving as a mayor and governor, Lee was defeated in the 2022 Presidential race against Yoon Suk Yeol and was later attacked by a disturbed critic, suffering a neck injury two years after his election loss," Campbell noted, as reported by the Yonhap news agency. "Now, Lee's extraordinary narrative may culminate in his ascension as the nation's leader."

Campbell also pointed out that Lee spearheaded the movement for Yoon's impeachment after the former President's unexpected declaration of martial law in December. The Constitutional Court ruled for Yoon's removal earlier this month, paving the way for the Presidential vote.

"As the head of South Korea's opposition, Lee stands as the clear favorite for the upcoming election, although his tenure will involve addressing an increasingly aggressive North Korea and a rising trade conflict," Campbell remarked.

Referencing a 2022 interview, Campbell quoted Lee, stating that given his past challenges, there's "little chance Lee is intimidated."

"There are many avenues through which one can learn about the world," Lee expressed. "However, actually experiencing life firsthand is altogether different."

A recent survey revealed that Lee is leading the Presidential race in South Korea with nearly 49% of public support.