Kim Yoon-ok — South Korea's former First Lady and public figure
Kim Yoon-ok (born 26 March 1947) is the wife of Lee Myung-bak and served as South Korea's First Lady. She is known for her low‑profile public role, focus on family and cultural initiatives, and background from Daegu.
Kim Yoon-ok (Korean: 김윤옥, born 26 March 1947) is best known as the wife of Lee Myung-bak and as First Lady of the Republic of Korea during his presidency. Her public persona combined support for social and cultural causes with a relatively private personal style. She attracted attention both as the spouse of a business and political leader and as a participant in official ceremonial duties.
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Background and early life
Kim comes from a family involved in business in Daegu, one of South Korea's major regional cities. She studied at Ewha Womans University, where she met Lee Myung-bak while enrolled in a college of health and home education. The couple became engaged on December 19 and were married in 1970 after her graduation. At the time of their engagement Lee was employed as a director at a major construction firm; the marriage produced four children: one son and three daughters.
Role as First Lady and public activities
During her time as First Lady she performed the customary duties of hosting visiting dignitaries, representing South Korea at cultural and ceremonial events, and supporting charitable programs. Her interests emphasized family welfare, cultural heritage and small-scale social initiatives. Rather than seeking a high political profile, she generally maintained a cautious, conservative public image while supporting volunteer groups and welfare projects by example.
Personal interests and public image
Kim has been described as a private person with domestic interests; she is noted for enjoying cooking and for favoring traditional Korean hospitality in official entertaining. Public commentary about her tended to balance respect for her role with occasional scrutiny of family business connections and the public responsibilities of political spouses.
Summary of key facts
- Born: 26 March 1947
- Spouse: Lee Myung-bak
- Education: Ewha Womans University (graduate)
- Family origins: business background in Daegu
- Engagement: December 19, 1970
- Public role: First Lady of South Korea; focus on culture, welfare and family
Kim Yoon-ok's public legacy is shaped by her role beside a prominent political leader, a consistent emphasis on cultural and family values, and a preference for a modest, service‑oriented presence in the public sphere.
Author
AlegsaOnline.com Kim Yoon-ok — South Korea's former First Lady and public figure Leandro Alegsa
URL: https://en.alegsaonline.com/art/140905