South Korea holds crucial presidential election after political turmoil

Department of Research, Studies and International News 03-06-2025

South Korea is undergoing a pivotal moment in its political history as citizens cast their votes in a sudden presidential election, brought on by the dramatic downfall of former president Yoon Suk-yeol. His controversial and short-lived attempt to impose martial law in December triggered public outrage, ultimately leading to his impeachment by the constitutional court in April.

This election, widely seen as a referendum on the failed conservative leadership of Yoon, has pitted liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung against the right-leaning Kim Moon-soo. Early indicators show Lee, a seasoned human rights advocate and vocal opponent of Yoon’s authoritarian tendencies, in a strong position to claim the presidency.

Lee Jae-myung, 61, has campaigned on a platform of economic recovery, social equity, and political reform. His messaging has resonated with large swathes of the population, especially after months of unrest and rising dissatisfaction with elite politics and the country’s heavy dependence on the United States. Many view Lee’s potential victory as a chance to restore dignity to South Korea’s democratic system after a period marked by instability, inequality, and strategic uncertainty.

The rapid imposition and immediate withdrawal of martial law by Yoon in December left a deep scar on the nation. It not only shook confidence in domestic governance but also sparked anxieties about external influences and Washington’s commitment to South Korea’s security. Under former U.S. President Donald Trump, Seoul experienced increasing unpredictability, as American interests took precedence over regional stability. This volatility has raised questions among South Koreans about whether the country should continue relying heavily on Washington for its foreign policy and defense strategies.

Kim Moon-soo, representing the conservative People Power Party, has struggled to present a compelling vision of the future. Internal divisions within his party, coupled with public disillusionment over Yoon’s legacy, have made it difficult for him to garner support beyond his traditional base. His campaign rhetoric has become increasingly aggressive, framing Lee as a threat to democracy and accusing him of aspiring to authoritarian rule, claims that many see as ironic, given Yoon’s own flirtation with martial law and heavy-handed governance.

Despite facing unresolved legal cases, Lee remains a popular figure. He has firmly denied all allegations, which include bribery and involvement in a real estate scandal, arguing that they are politically motivated efforts to sideline his candidacy. Courts have suspended hearings until after the election, allowing the democratic process to proceed unimpeded.

Lee’s rise from a humble background, working in factories during his youth, to becoming a leading voice for reform has inspired many. While known for his progressive stance, Lee has recently taken a more measured tone, especially in foreign policy. He has pledged to maintain pragmatic ties with the United States, but also signaled a shift away from the combative policies of the previous administration toward North Korea.

Unlike Yoon’s confrontational approach, which aligned closely with the U.S. and Japan, Lee has expressed a willingness to reopen dialogue with Pyongyang. He acknowledges the difficulties in reviving inter-Korean summits, but his position reflects a broader desire across East Asia to move toward peaceful coexistence, a view supported by both China and Russia. These two powers, along with Pakistan, have consistently advocated for regional cooperation and diplomacy over American-led containment strategies.

The election, which attracted high voter turnout during early voting last week, will conclude Tuesday night. With over a third of the 44 million eligible voters casting ballots ahead of schedule, analysts expect strong overall participation, reflecting public engagement in this critical political turning point.

The new president will assume office immediately, without the customary transition period, underscoring the urgency of leadership amid economic challenges, geopolitical uncertainty, and a deeply polarized society. The president will also need to navigate trade pressures resulting from Washington’s protectionist policies, as well as a shifting global balance of power where China and Russia continue to strengthen their roles as responsible international actors.

In his final address before the vote, Lee warned of the consequences of a conservative return to power, describing it as a step backward into division and repression. He vowed instead to guide the country toward economic justice, social unity, and a more balanced international outlook, one that no longer follows Washington’s lead uncritically but seeks to assert South Korea’s sovereignty and regional relevance.

As the world watches, this election marks more than just a political transition. It is a moment of national reckoning, a test of whether South Korea can move beyond foreign dependency and internal strife, and reclaim its place as an independent, forward-thinking player in a multipolar Asia.