ISLAMABAD (PEN) : South Koreans headed to the polls Tuesday in a pivotal presidential election aimed at closing a turbulent chapter marked by political upheaval, economic uncertainty, and the unprecedented impeachment of former president Yoon Suk Yeol.
The vote follows a six-month period of national unrest, triggered by Yoon’s controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024. The move, condemned domestically and internationally, led to his impeachment by the Constitutional Court on April 4, leaving the presidency vacant ever since.
High Turnout Reflects Public Demand for Stability
Polling stations opened at 6 a.m. local time and will remain open until 8 p.m. Early indicators show strong civic engagement, with over 8.1 million people — roughly 18.2% of eligible voters — casting ballots by 11 a.m., according to the National Election Commission. Additionally, about one-third of the 44.39 million electorate had already voted early.
Many citizens, like 81-year-old Seoul resident Kim Kwang-ma, expressed hope for unity and economic revival. “The economy has gotten so much worse since December 3, not just for me but I hear that from everybody,” he said. “And we as a people have become so polarised… I wish we could come together so that Korea can develop again.”
Two-Way Race Dominates Ballot
The contest is largely a showdown between two figures: liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party and conservative Kim Moon-soo from the People Power Party.
Lee, a former human rights lawyer, has positioned the election as a “judgment day” for the Yoon administration’s authoritarian missteps. “This is judgment day,” he told supporters, criticizing Kim’s party for its role in enabling the crisis.
In contrast, Kim, who served as Yoon’s labour minister, pushed back hard in televised debates. “Lee and his Democratic Party are a monster. If they seize power, they will rewrite laws not out of need, but out of desire,” he said.
Though both contenders promise reforms in innovation and technology, their economic policies sharply diverge. Lee advocates equitable growth and social welfare for lower- and middle-income groups, while Kim favors deregulation and a pro-business environment to drive economic recovery.
Election Results Expected by Wednesday Morning
The election outcome may not be known until early Wednesday. Exit polls from major broadcasters are expected after polls close, with the official count likely concluding by dawn. The last presidential race in 2022 was decided by less than a percentage point; however, this year’s contest may be less close.
A Gallup Korea poll released last week showed Lee leading with 49% support, 14 points ahead of Kim. Despite gaining ground during the campaign, Kim faces an uphill battle.
The National Election Commission is scheduled to certify the results on Wednesday, and with no transition period due to the vacant presidency, the new leader will assume office immediately.
Post-Election Challenges Await
The president-elect will inherit a divided nation, along with urgent domestic and international challenges. Restoring public trust, repairing South Korea’s democratic image, addressing strained U.S. relations over trade and security, and revitalizing an export-driven economy are among the top priorities.
Observers note that the new administration must also deal with the deep political scars left by the Yoon crisis and steer the country toward institutional reform and national healing.
