Who Is Lee Myung-bak? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Lee Myung-bak was born on December 19, 1941, making him 83 years old in 2025. He served as the 10th President of South Korea from 2008 to 2013. A member of the Grand National Party, Lee’s presidency was marked by significant economic growth and various controversies. He has had a fascinating journey, transitioning from business to politics, which has left a lasting impact on South Korea’s landscape.
| Occupation | Politician |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 19, 1941 |
| Age | 83 Years |
| Birth Place | Osaka, Japan |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | Japan |
Popularity
Lee Myung-bak's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Lee Myung-bak stands at approximately 174 cm (5 ft 8.5 in) tall and weighs around 70 kg (154 lbs). His stature reflects a well-maintained physique, characteristic of someone who has dedicated much of his life to public service and leadership.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
In terms of personal relationships, Lee Myung-bak has been married to Kim Yoon-ok since 1977. The couple has three daughters and a son. There are no public records or credible information suggesting extramarital relationships, affirming Lee's commitment to his family life.
His parents emigrated to Japan in 1929, nineteen years after the Japanese annexation of Korea. Lee's father, Lee Chung-u, was employed as a farm labourer in rural Japan, and his mother, Chae Tae-won , was a housewife. He was the fifth of seven children.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Lee Myung-bak's net worth is estimated to be around $30 million. This wealth is a result of his successful business career, particularly in the construction and finance sectors, before entering politics. During his presidency, Lee reportedly earned an annual salary of approximately $250,000, but his real earnings came from his extensive network and investments.
The Lee administration introduced a tailor-made educational system and established the National Scholarship Foundation, which offers services such as student loans and loan counseling. In addition, the government promoted an income contingency pay-later plan to help out those struggling to pay tuition fees.
The income-contingent loan program, implemented in 2010, allowed students to repay tuition loans after securing sufficient income, thereby reducing the financial burden on students from low-income families.
Career, Business, and Investments
Before his political career, Lee Myung-bak was a prominent businessman, having founded the construction company, Daewoo Engineering & Construction. His experience in the corporate world paved the way for his political ascension. As president, he focused on economic growth, sustainability, and the revival of South Korea's infrastructure.
Post-presidency, Lee has continued to engage in public discourse and remains a significant figure in South Korean politics, often sharing insights and opinions on national and global issues.
Lee Myung-bak (born 19 December 1941), often referred to by his initials MB, is a South Korean businessman and politician who served as the 10th president of South Korea from 2008 to 2013. Before his presidency, he was the CEO of Hyundai Engineering & Construction, and the mayor of Seoul from 2002 to 2006.
Social Network
Lee Myung-bak is not excessively active on social media platforms, but he maintains a presence through official channels and occasional interviews. His insights, mainly focused on economic and political matters, resonate with many followers who are keen on understanding South Korea's past and future directions.
Lee altered the South Korean government's approach to North Korea, preferring a more hardline strategy in the wake of increased provocation from the North, though he was supportive of regional dialogue with Russia, China and Japan.
Under Lee, South Korea increased its visibility and influence in the global scene, resulting in the hosting of the 2010 G-20 Seoul summit.
However, significant controversy remains in Korea regarding high-profile government initiatives which have caused some factions to engage in civil opposition and protest against the incumbent government and President Lee's Saenuri Party (formerly the Grand National Party). The reformist faction within the Saenuri Party was at odds with Lee.
He ended his five-year term on 24 February 2013, and was succeeded by Park Geun-hye.
Education
Lee Myung-bak graduated from Korea University, where he earned a degree in economics. His educational background laid the intellectual foundation for his subsequent endeavors in business and politics. Additionally, he attended Harvard University, completing a program that further enhanced his understanding of global economics.
Lee is married to Kim Yoon-ok and has three daughters and one son. His older brother, Lee Sang-deuk, was a South Korean politician. He is a Christian attending Somang Presbyterian Church. Lee is a graduate of Korea University and received an honorary degree from Paris Diderot University in 2011.
