Lee Jae-myung outlines major reforms ahead of South Korea election

South Korea’s presidential frontrunner Lee Jae-myung promises sweeping reforms in economy, foreign policy, and society ahead of the June 3 snap election.

South Korea’s Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung plans include boosting R&D and AI investment, expanding defence as an industry, supporting local businesses, and strengthening the cultural sector. He also advocates trade diversification and a cautious approach to U.S. tariff negotiations.

In foreign policy, Lee supports deeper ties with the Global South and the EU, while maintaining the U.S. alliance without provoking China or Russia. He aims to ease tensions with North Korea by restoring military communication and pursuing denuclearisation.

To restore political stability after December’s martial law, Lee proposes limiting presidential powers, reforming the legal system, and increasing judicial independence. On labor, he backs a shorter workweek and raising the retirement age. His population plan includes tax breaks for parents and housing for newlyweds. He also pledges to cut coal use by 2040 and gradually reduce nuclear reliance.

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