Lee Syng-man

Lee Syng-man was the first President of South Korea, serving from 1948 until 1960. A prominent figure in the Korean independence movement, he spent much of his early life in the United States, where he obtained multiple degrees. Lee's presidency was marked by authoritarian practices and political repression, particularly against leftist groups. Despite initial support from the United States during the Korean War, his government faced increasing criticism for corruption and inefficiency, leading to his eventual ousting following student protests.