Gentlemen, today South Korea is holding a snap presidential election, a pivotal moment following the impeachment and removal of Yoon Suk Yeol over his ill-fated martial law decree last December. The election was triggered after Yoon’s brief attempt to impose martial law, which led to his impeachment by the National Assembly and eventual ousting by the Constitutional Court on April 4, 2025. The vote, set for June 3 as required within 60 days of a presidential vacancy, has seen high turnout—65.5% by 2 PM KST, surpassing 2022’s numbers, with early voting hitting a record 34.74%. Overseas voting also saw a strong 79.5% turnout across 118 countries. Notably, no women are running, a first since 2007.
Lee Jae-myung, polling at ~49%, a former human rights lawyer and governor, is the frontrunner despite ongoing legal battles over alleged bribery and election law violations. He’s pivoted to appeal to moderates, emphasizing economic stability, small business support, and easing tensions with North Korea while maintaining the U.S. alliance. Critics, especially conservatives, question his past skepticism of U.S.-Japan ties and his softer stance on China. Kim Moon-soo, polling at ~35%, a former labor minister turned conservative, pledges deregulation, tax cuts, and a hardline stance on North Korea, aligning closely with U.S. interests and Yoon’s foreign policy. He’s backed by Yoon loyalists but struggles against the broader anti-PPP sentiment post-impeachment.
Polls close at 8 PM KST, with results expected by early Wednesday. The winner takes office immediately, no transition period.
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