South Korea Election: After Martial Law – NPR
South Korea stands at a crossroads as voters choose their next president. The race pits Lee Jae-myung against Kim Moon-soo with Lee holding the advantage. This pivotal election comes in the wake of President Yoon’s impeachment and amidst deep political polarization across the nation. The next South Korean leader will inherit a nation grappling with division and a pressing need to restore faith in the democratic process.The incoming president faces immediate challenges: fostering stability and healing the rifts within the country. For comprehensive coverage, including real-time updates on vote counts and expert analysis, turn to News Directory 3. Discover what’s next for South Korea’s future.
South Korea election: Lee Jae-myung Favored in Presidential Race
Updated June 02, 2025
South Koreans are casting their ballots Tuesday too elect a new president in what is largely seen as a referendum on the governing conservative party and the tenure of President Yoon Suk Yeol.
daniel Ceng/Anadolu via Getty images
Campaign banners for Lee Jae-myung and Kim Moon-soo are displayed in Seoul as south Korea’s presidential election nears.
Polls opened nationwide at 6 a.m. Tuesday (5 p.m. ET monday). Lee Jae-myung,the Democratic Party’s candidate,is widely expected to win the South Korea election. Throughout the race, he has maintained a consistent lead in the polls over his conservative opponent, kim Moon-soo.
The next president will face notable challenges promptly upon taking office.The presidential race occurs nearly two months after President Yoon was removed from office following his impeachment for declaring martial law. the impeachment and subsequent political polarization have shaken public confidence in South Korea’s democracy.
What’s next
The incoming president will need to address the deep political divisions and restore faith in the democratic process to ensure political stability.