Lee Myung-bak

ModernPoliticianKorea1941 — ?

South Korean president and former Hyundai CEO.

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Quick Facts

Born

1941

Country

Korea

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)19

Political (20%)72

Influence (20%)56

Legacy (20%)45

Leadership (15%)66

Strategy (15%)36

Total Score51.5

Lee Myung-bak — Complete Timeline

2008 AD

Elected President of South KoreaPolitical Action◆ Major

Lee Myung-bak won the presidential election as the Grand National Party candidate, ending a decade of progressive rule. His background as a former Hyundai CEO shaped his business-friendly policies.

ElectionConservative Politics

Impact: nationalconstructive

2009 AD

Four Major Rivers ProjectPolitical Action◆ Major

Lee launched a large-scale infrastructure project to dredge and restore South Korea's four major rivers. The project aimed to prevent floods and improve water quality but faced criticism for environmental damage and cost overruns.

InfrastructureEnvironment

Impact: nationalconstructive

2011 AD

Free trade agreement with the USPolitical Action◆ Major

Lee's government signed the Korea-US Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), which was ratified by both countries. The deal aimed to boost trade but was controversial in South Korea due to concerns about domestic industries.

Trade AgreementUS Relations

Impact: regionalconstructive

2018 AD

Conviction for corruptionPolitical Action◆ Major

Lee Myung-bak was convicted of bribery, embezzlement, and abuse of power, receiving a 15-year prison sentence. The case was part of a broader crackdown on corruption among former South Korean presidents.

CorruptionConviction

Impact: nationaltragic