The Seoul Central District Court’s conviction of opposition leader Lee Jae-myung for election law violations could reshape South Korea’s political landscape. The ruling, if upheld, may upend Lee’s political career and force the Democratic Party (DP) to reassess its leadership as it grapples with internal divisions and a deeply polarized electorate.

Lee’s conviction highlights the contentious intersection of law and politics in South Korea, with both his supporters and critics framing the case as a pivotal moment for the country’s democracy. While the DP rallies around its embattled leader, questions about leadership succession and public trust in the judiciary loom large.