President Lee’s Son’s Private Wedding Welcomes Childhood Factory Friends, Rekindling Memories of ‘Boy Worker’ Days

Introduction: A Wedding Rooted in Humble Origins

On June 14, 2025, a private wedding ceremony was held in Seoul for Lee Dong-ho, the son of South Korean President Lee Jae-myung. What made this event particularly touching was the presence of a small group of guests who shared a unique bond with the president — his childhood friends from the Orient Watch factory, where Lee worked as a ‘boy worker’ in his youth. This invitation reflects not only a personal gesture but also a cultural narrative about perseverance, loyalty, and the significance of early life experiences in shaping a leader.

The ‘Boy Worker’ Days at Orient Watch Factory

President Lee’s story is well-known in South Korea as one of overcoming hardship. At just 15 years old, in 1979, Lee began working at the Orient Watch factory in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province. Unlike many of his peers who joined after middle school, Lee started working immediately after elementary school, carrying an English dictionary with him and studying diligently even while laboring. This period of his life, often referred to as his ‘boy worker’ days, is emblematic of his resilience and dedication. The factory was not just a workplace but a formative environment where lifelong friendships were forged.

The Reunion at the Wedding

According to Democratic Party lawmaker Jung Cheong-rae, who shared his experience on Facebook, he encountered some of these childhood friends outside the wedding venue. They warmly greeted him and expressed their hopes that President Lee would be well cared for by the nation. The friends reminisced about their shared past, highlighting how Lee’s humble beginnings as a factory worker shaped his character. This reunion was not only a nostalgic moment but also a testament to the president’s enduring connection to his roots.

Emotional Moments and Family Bonds

Another Democratic Party member, Park Hong-geun, who attended the wedding, described the ceremony as deeply emotional. He noted how President Lee, his wife Kim Hye-kyung, their son Dong-ho, and the bride’s family have endured many hardships over the years. The wedding was a rare occasion filled with warmth and tenderness, with the president visibly moved, struggling to speak as he offered blessings to the newlyweds. The family’s mutual support and affection were palpable, reflecting the strong familial bonds that have helped them navigate public and private challenges.

Cultural Significance and Public Reaction

The invitation of childhood factory friends to such a private and significant family event resonated widely in South Korean communities and online forums such as Naver, Tistory, and political discussion boards. Many praised the president’s humility and loyalty to his past, seeing it as a refreshing contrast to the often elite image of political figures. Comments ranged from admiration for Lee’s character to reflections on the value of lifelong friendships and the importance of remembering one’s origins despite rising to power.

Insights for International Readers

For those unfamiliar with South Korea’s socio-political landscape, this story offers a glimpse into the cultural values that shape Korean leadership narratives. The concept of ‘소년공’ (boy worker) is historically significant, representing a generation that contributed to South Korea’s rapid industrialization under challenging conditions. President Lee’s life story, including his ties to factory workers, resonates with themes of perseverance and social mobility that are deeply respected in Korean society. Understanding this context enriches appreciation of the personal and political symbolism behind the wedding guest list.

Conclusion: A Leader Who Remembers His Roots

President Lee Jae-myung’s decision to invite his former factory colleagues to his son’s wedding is more than a personal gesture; it is a powerful reminder of his journey from humble beginnings to the highest office in the country. It reflects a leadership style grounded in empathy, loyalty, and the enduring value of friendship. As South Korea continues to watch his presidency closely, moments like these humanize the leader and inspire citizens who see in his story a reflection of their own hopes and struggles.