South Korean scene
December 19 was not only election day for South Korea but it was also the 66th birthday and 37th wedding anniversary of the leading contender--Lee Myung-bak. Although Mr. Lee has enjoyed top position in the opinion polls (with over 20 points ahead of his main rivals), his campaign seemed to lack the fire and enthusiasm which were usually present in previous South Korean presidential elections. But then again he was the favourite to win because his two main rivals --Lee Hoi-chang and Chung Dong-young-- failed to grab the public's attention and support. In other words his rivals failed to provide any sort of competition.
The prime reason behind people supporting the former Hyundai executive is that they want to see a fast-growing economy achieving a growth of 5 % ; they want changes in the education system and many Koreans demand a comprehensive social-security system. And they believe that Lee could fulfil these aspirations.
But if he fails to live up to their expectations, than his popularity will soon decline swiftly. So he has to make things happen; making promises only will not do.
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