South Korea is witnessing a surge in early voting as more than 12 million people have already cast their ballots ahead of the presidential election. This number, reported by Yonhap News Agency, accounts for over a quarter of the country’s 44.3 million eligible voters. Early voting began on Thursday and will conclude on Friday, just days before the official election on Tuesday.
This election is particularly significant as South Koreans prepare to choose a successor to the impeached President Yoon Sook-yeol. Yoon’s presidency was marked by controversy, including a brief declaration of martial law in December, which was later overturned by the National Assembly. He faced impeachment that same month, and it was not until April that the Constitutional Court confirmed his removal from office.
Current polling shows Lee Jae-myung from the Democratic Party leading with 42.9 percent support, followed by Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party at 36.8 percent. Lee Jun-seok from the New Reform Party trails significantly with just 10.3 percent.
Voter turnout has been notably high in areas supportive of the Democratic Party, while conservative regions like Gyeongsang Province are seeing lower participation. David Lee, a journalist based in Seoul, noted that the mood among Democratic supporters is quite energetic, especially following the impeachment trial. In contrast, supporters of the People Power Party are facing challenges.
The election comes amid political unrest and public division, with many citizens actively campaigning for and against Yoon’s presidency. There are also concerns about election integrity, as conspiracy theories about fraud have circulated, particularly regarding early voting. Authorities have reported an increase in vandalism of campaign materials, leading to the arrest of at least 690 individuals.
Frontrunner Lee has taken precautions for his safety, wearing a bulletproof vest and installing protective glass at his campaign events due to threats against him. Police have recorded multiple social media threats, including one aimed at the New Reform Party candidate.
As South Korea heads to the polls, this election is expected to bring closure to a tumultuous political period and shape the country’s future direction.