Rhee, Syngman
Rhee, Syngman (1875–1965) Korean statesman, first president (1948–60) of South Korea. Rhee was imprisoned (1898–1904) for his opposition to Japanese rule, before living (1912–45) in exile in the USA. In 1919, he formed a government-in-exile. After World War II, he was leader of US-occupied South Korea. His presidency was marked by the Korean War. Rhee's staunch anti-communist policy attracted the support of the USA. His regime became increasingly authoritarian and corrupt. Re-elected for a fourth time, accusations of vote-rigging sparked riots, and Rhee was forced to resign.
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Rhee, Syngman
