South Korea sets June Presidential Election following political upheaval

Department of Research, Studies and International News 09-04-2025

South Korea has scheduled a snap presidential election for June 3, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s political history after months of deep unrest and the dramatic ousting of President Yoon Suk Yeol.

Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo confirmed the election date during a press briefing on Tuesday. He stated that June 3 would be declared a temporary public holiday to ensure maximum voter participation. The announcement comes in response to constitutional requirements mandating a presidential election within 60 days of the office becoming vacant.

This urgent electoral decision follows a political firestorm ignited in December, when former President Yoon shocked the nation by declaring martial law and deploying military forces in an attempt to obstruct legislative proceedings. The constitutional court later found Yoon in breach of his presidential duties and unanimously ruled in favor of his removal from office, citing a serious abuse of power.

The unprecedented move not only led to Yoon’s impeachment but also temporarily unseated Han Duck-soo, who had been serving as prime minister. Han’s own impeachment was short-lived, however, as the court swiftly overturned the decision, reinstating him and entrusting him with presidential responsibilities until the nation elects a new leader.

Since Yoon’s downfall, South Korea has been navigating a precarious period of political instability. The absence of a permanent leader has hindered Seoul’s ability to respond decisively to international economic challenges, particularly in the face of growing tensions with the United States over trade and a slowdown in regional economic activity.

Amid the political vacuum, attention has now shifted to the emerging race for South Korea’s highest office. Lee Jae-myung, a prominent figure in the opposition Democratic Party and former governor of Gyeonggi Province, has quickly emerged as the front-runner. Known for his populist style and progressive policies, Lee previously ran against Yoon in the closely contested 2022 election, losing by a narrow margin.

Despite his popularity, Lee’s candidacy is not without complications. He is currently entangled in several legal proceedings, including allegations of violating election laws and accepting bribes, charges he has vehemently denied. These legal battles have cast uncertainty over his campaign, although they have yet to significantly dent his public support.

According to a Gallup Korea poll released on April 4, 34% of respondents favored Lee as the country’s next president. The poll also highlighted a fragmented field within the conservative camp. Labour Minister Kim Moon-soo, who officially declared his candidacy on Tuesday, garnered 9% support. Other notable conservative figures included former Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon at 5%, Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo at 4%, and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon at 2%.

The conservative People Power Party, previously led by Yoon, now finds itself at a crossroads. With no clear successor to rally behind, the party faces an uphill battle in uniting its base and presenting a compelling vision for the post-Yoon era. The coming weeks are expected to see intense jockeying for position as candidates vie to consolidate support and distinguish themselves amid public disillusionment with the current administration.

This election is expected to serve as a referendum not only on Yoon’s controversial tenure but also on the broader direction of South Korean democracy. Yoon’s attempt to use military power against the legislative branch has raised urgent questions about the strength of democratic institutions and the need for stronger safeguards against executive overreach.

Public sentiment has largely favored the constitutional court’s decision, with many South Koreans welcoming Yoon’s removal as a reaffirmation of democratic accountability. Yet, the country remains deeply polarized, and the road to restoring political stability will be complex.

As June approaches, the presidential race is likely to intensify, with both liberal and conservative camps working to mobilize their bases and appeal to undecided voters. While the outcome remains uncertain, what is clear is that this election will have lasting implications for South Korea’s political future and its role on the international stage.

In a nation still reeling from the aftershocks of a constitutional crisis, the upcoming vote represents a critical opportunity for renewal, and a chance to reaffirm the democratic values at the heart of the republic.