Syngman Rhee
Politician and 1st President of South Korea

Born
March 26th, 1875
150 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1965
60 years ago — 90 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
South Korea
Links & References
Born in 1875, a South Korean journalist and politician served as the first President of South Korea from 1948 to 1960. After receiving a Ph.D. from Princeton University, contributed to the independence movement against Japanese colonial rule. As President, focused on establishing a democratic government and managing the Korean War, aligning closely with the United States. His tenure was marked by political repression and controversy leading to widespread protests.
Served as the first President of South Korea
Led South Korea during the Korean War
Authored the 1948 Constitution of South Korea
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