Welcome To Normal

This realism may also help explain why Korean voters seemed unconcerned with the various corruption scandals that might otherwise have tarnished Lee's reputation. Estimated to be worth about $40 million, Lee has long been accused of stock manipulation, among other crimes. Although prosecutors cleared him of the stock charges in early December, much of the population still suspects him of impropriety. What's remarkable is that they don't seem to care: the accusations haven't touched Lee's popularity. As he coasted toward victory in mid-December, he promised "a leadership that solves, not causes, problems." That may not prove exciting or dramatic. But it's just what South Korea needs these days.

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