Lithium secondary batteries having polymer electrolytes are provided. A lithium battery includes a positive electrode including a positive active material capable of intercalating and deintercalating lithium ions, a negative electrode including a negative active material capable of intercalating and deintercalating lithium ions, and a polymer electrolyte. The polymer electrolyte includes a polymer, a non-aqueous organic solvent, and a lithium salt. The polymer electrolyte has a shear strength relative to the positive electrode of about 0.7 N/mm or greater.