A think tank formed by Lee Jae-myung, a leading presidential primary candidate from the Democratic Party (DPK), has effectively disbanded just a week after its launch. The head of operations for the group, called “Growth and Cohesion,” said the decision was made after concerns arose that some members were being linked to potential posts in a future administration, raising issues of premature electioneering.
The group had officially drawn more than 600 members, with unofficial participants possibly numbering in the thousands. Many were university professors often referred to as “polifessors” — a blend of “politics” and “professor.” As Lee maintained his frontrunner status, early jockeying for positions appeared to take hold around him.
Polifessors have long been a fixture in South Korean politics. In 2017, about 1,000 professors reportedly aligned themselves with Moon Jae-in’s campaign amid expectations of his victory following the impeachment of former President Park Geun-hye. The trend appears even more pronounced this time, with professors crowding around Lee’s camp, some promoting their ideas as potential campaign pledges to raise their profiles.
“Growth and Cohesion” cited concerns that such activities could cause confusion within the DPK’s broader election campaign as a reason for shutting down.
While professors often move into government roles in other countries, South Korea’s case — where thousands vie for political influence — is seen as unusual. In contrast, figures like Janet Yellen, a University of California, Berkeley economics professor who later served as U.S. Treasury Secretary and Federal Reserve Chair, earned recognition for their scholarship and policy experience.
Many South Korean polifessors, however, are seen as lacking comparable academic or practical credentials, often spending more time networking in political circles than conducting research or teaching. Some of the policies they promoted have been blamed for later failures, including the controversial “income-led growth” strategy and the nuclear phase-out pursued under the Moon administration — both championed by academics.
Public officials in South Korea are required to resign before running for office, but professors are exempt. If their political ambitions fail, they can return to university posts, often using campaign experience and connections to secure government-funded research projects and grants, minimizing the risks of political engagement.
The unchecked rise of polifessors ultimately harms students and undermines the integrity of universities.
