Seoul on Edge as South Koreans Vote for New President Amid Turmoil
Seoul, South Korea – After a turbulent six-hour emergency martial law, violent protests, and the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, South Korea is poised to select a new leader in hopes of restoring national stability. Voting takes place on Tuesday, from 6 am to 8 pm (GMT 21:00 to 11:00), with 44.39 million eligible voters casting their ballots for one of five candidates. Leading the charge is the opposition Democratic Party’s Lee Jae-myung, followed closely by Kim Moon-soo from the People Power Party.
Yoon, who faces charges related to an insurrection, could see serious consequences if convicted, including life imprisonment or the death penalty. The recent political turmoil has ignited widespread voter engagement, with early voting reaching its second-highest turnout at 34.74%.
Lee, previously narrowly defeated by Yoon in the 2022 elections, has re-emerged as a strong contender. Despite facing legal challenges and a recent attack during a campaign event, he has gained traction among voters across the political spectrum. Notably, a significant defection from Kim’s party has underscored the shifting political landscape.
As the nation grapples with pressing issues like youth unemployment and climate change, Lee has promised a focus on economic growth and technological investment, distancing himself from divisive social matters. Meanwhile, Kim aims for strong economic ties with the U.S., including a summit with President Trump to address potential tariffs on South Korean exports.
Political analyst Lim Woon-taek warns that the next president will inherit significant burdens from Yoon’s administration’s failures. Results of the election are anticipated late Tuesday or early Wednesday, with increased scrutiny at polling stations aimed at ensuring integrity in the ballot counting process.
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