Serving as the tenth president of South Korea from 2008 to 2013, Lee Myung-bak transitioned from a prominent career as a corporate executive to the highest office in the nation. His time in power was marked by significant diplomatic shifts regarding North Korea and his oversight of the 2010 G-20 Seoul summit, intended to elevate South Korea’s global standing.
Background and Early Career
Born in Osaka, Japan, on 19 December 1941, Lee spent his early life in a period of intense historical volatility before his family relocated to Pohang, South Korea, in 1945. He attended Korea University and was active in student protests, which led to a brief term in Seodaemun Prison during the 1960s. He later attended George Washington University, building a foundation that would eventually support his political ambitions.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Corporate Leadership at Hyundai
Lee joined Hyundai Construction in 1965, eventually earning the nickname 'Raging Bulldozer' for his intense work ethic. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in securing and executing massive international infrastructure contracts, including projects in Thailand and Saudi Arabia. By age 35, he was appointed CEO, helping the company grow from 90 employees to over 160,000 before he stepped down as chairman in 1992.
Political Progression
Lee entered the National Assembly in 1992 and later served as the Mayor of Seoul from 2002 to 2006. As president, his administration navigated a complex geopolitical landscape, adopting a hardline policy toward North Korea while seeking regional cooperation with China, Russia, and Japan. Despite his influence, his later years were marred by legal challenges, including a 2018 arrest for embezzlement and bribery. Following multiple trials and a lengthy prison sentence, he received a special pardon from President Yoon Suk-yeol in December 2022.
Fast facts
- Born: 19 December 1941, Osaka
- President of South Korea: 2008-2013
- Mayor of Seoul: 2002-2006
- Education: Korea University, George Washington University
- Religion: Presbyterianism
- Spouse: Kim Yoon-ok
- Key Award: Grand Order of Mugunghwa
Questions readers ask
What was Lee Myung-bak's professional background before politics?
He was a business executive at Hyundai Engineering and Construction, eventually becoming the company's chairman.
Why was he imprisoned after his presidency?
He was convicted on charges of bribery, embezzlement, and tax evasion, though he was later granted a special pardon in 2022.
