Sim Sang-jung was born on February 20, 1959, in South Korea. She grew up with a strong sense of social justice and equality, which would later shape her political beliefs. She attended Seoul National University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in education with the goal of becoming a history teacher.
Sim's journey into labor rights activism began during her time working at a cassette tape factory. She was fired for mobilizing workers to demand better pay and meals, sparking a passion for fighting for workers' rights. In 2004, she was elected as a member of the Democratic Labor Party, marking the start of her political career.
Her activism did not come without consequences. In 1985, she found herself on the country's "most wanted" list for her role in instigating labor strikes, a position she held for nine years. She was later sentenced to 1.5 years in prison for charges of "instigation of mass harm" and "instigation of arson," although she served a two-year suspended sentence.
Throughout her career, Sim has been a vocal advocate for various social causes, including LGBTQ+ rights. She was the only major presidential candidate in South Korea to openly support these rights, demonstrating her commitment to equality and inclusion.
During her time as a wanted activist, Sim married fellow activist Lee Seung-bae. The couple has one son, Lee Woo-kyun, and they also share a white dog. Despite the challenges she has faced in her activism, Sim remains dedicated to fighting for a more just and equitable society.
Sim Sang-jung's impact on South Korean politics and society cannot be understated. Through her tireless advocacy for labor rights and social justice, she has inspired countless others to join the fight for a fairer and more inclusive world.
As a member of the 21st National Assembly and the former leader of the Justice Party, Sim continues to be a strong voice for marginalized communities and those in need. Her presence on social media, with a large following on Twitter, allows her to connect with supporters and share her message with a wider audience.
In a world that often prioritizes power and profit over people, Sim Sang-jung stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. Her unwavering dedication to creating a more equitable society serves as a reminder that change is possible when individuals stand up and speak out against injustice.