South Korea’s Supreme Court Overturns Lee Jae-myung's Eligibility

South Korea’s Supreme Court on Thursday overturned a lower court’s acquittal of opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, ruling that he violated election laws during his 2022 presidential bid by making false statements. The decision throws into question his eligibility to run in next month’s snap election and could reshape the political landscape.

The court found that Lee’s remarks—related to a controversial land development project—misled voters and sent the case back to the Seoul High Court for reconsideration. While the ruling does not immediately disqualify him, a subsequent guilty verdict could bar him from holding public office for up to a decade.

"The defendant’s false statements were significant enough to distort voters’ judgment about his suitability for office," said Chief Justice Jo Hee-de in the verdict, which was supported by 10 of the court’s 12 judges.

Legal and Political Fallout

The Supreme Court’s unusually swift decision—issued just 34 days after prosecutors appealed—has intensified scrutiny ahead of the June 3 election. Legal experts say the high court’s stance effectively signals Lee’s guilt, though the appeals process could take months, likely extending beyond the election date.

Lee, the Democratic Party of Korea’s (DPK) nominee, denied wrongdoing and vowed to continue his campaign. "I will trust the people and move forward confidently," he wrote on Facebook after the ruling.

Analysts say the decision deals a blow to Lee’s credibility, particularly among undecided voters. "Moderate voters, who make up about 10% of the electorate, may now reconsider their support," said Shin Yul, a political science professor at Myongji University.

The ruling also reignites debate over Lee’s legal troubles, which include separate charges of bribery, perjury, and illicit corporate spending. None of those cases are expected to conclude before the election.

Broader Implications

The court’s decision comes amid heightened political tensions in South Korea. Lee, a vocal critic of conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, has faced multiple crises in recent months—including surviving an assassination attempt in January when a knife-wielding attacker stabbed him in the neck.

His campaign gained momentum in December after he defied Yoon’s short-lived martial law declaration, livestreaming his climb over National Assembly barricades to rally protesters.

Polls show Lee remains the frontrunner, with 38% support in a recent Gallup Korea survey. His closest rivals—former People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon and former acting President Han Duck-soo—trail at 8% and 6%, respectively.

The DPK has dismissed speculation about replacing Lee as its candidate. However, political analyst Rhee Jong-hoon suggested the party may explore contingency plans, such as alliances with minor parties or alternative nominees.

Meanwhile, acting President Han Duck-soo resigned Thursday, signaling his expected bid for the presidency. His interim role, assumed after Yoon’s impeachment, could bolster his profile in the race.

Under South Korean law, a fine exceeding 1 million won or a prison sentence for election law violations disqualifies a candidate for five to ten years. The Seoul High Court’s next ruling will determine whether Lee’s political future survives this legal challenge.