Korean Entertainer Lee Hyuk-jae Reveals Political Aspirations Amidst Controversies

As the June 3 local elections approach, Korean entertainer Lee Hyuk-jae has opened up about his lifelong dream of entering politics.

Recently, a video titled 'The Shocking Reason Why Lee Hyuk-jae Believes in Election Fraud' was uploaded on the YouTube channel 'Toilet Clinic.' In the video, Lee candidly discusses his journey from his peak in the entertainment industry to his current political ambitions and shares personal stories about his family.

Lee revealed, "Since childhood, my dream was to be involved in politics," adding that he attended Inha University after failing the entrance exam for the Korea Military Academy. He explained, "I never considered the legislative branch (National Assembly). I wanted to be like the Mayor of New York, holding administrative power, budget control, and appointment authority, which is why I chose a university in Incheon, considering my political aspirations."

He further shared, "I moved every five years," mentioning his residences in various districts such as Jung-gu (now Jemulpo-gu), Nam-gu (now Michuhol-gu), and Yeonsu-gu.

Lee also confessed, "I thought gaining fame as an entertainer would allow me to enter politics. However, I realized I had to give up money for politics, but since I had already lost a lot, I decided to choose financial stability to support my family."

When asked whether he would choose to be a YouTuber with a million subscribers or the Mayor of Incheon, Lee expressed his desire to support charismatic leaders, whether as a mayor, a congressman for regional development, or even a president.

Lee has been involved in the election campaign of Yoo Jeong-bok, the Mayor of Incheon, since 2014. Last month, he participated as a judge in the People Power Party's 'Metropolitan Councilor Proportional Youth Public Audition.' During the event, Lee stated, "I am no longer a celebrity but an ordinary person," and mentioned his overseas volunteer work as part of taking responsibility for his past actions.

Previously, Lee halted his entertainment career in 2010 following an assault incident involving a bar employee. In 2024, he was listed as a major tax defaulter for owing over 200 million won. In 2021, he faced fraud charges for failing to repay millions borrowed from an acquaintance, and in 2017, he lost a lawsuit against his former agency, resulting in a court order to pay over 200 million won, amidst ongoing debt controversies.

Meanwhile, Lee married an elementary school teacher in 2002 and has two sons and a daughter.

Reporter: Da-yeon Jeong, TenAsia light@tenasia.co.kr