South Korea Holds High-Stakes Presidential Election Following Political Turmoil and Ousted Leader’s Martial Law Decree

Seoul, June 3, 2025 — South Koreans are casting their votes in a high-stakes presidential election that follows months of political upheaval and a constitutional crisis triggered by former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s controversial—and short-lived—imposition of martial law.

This snap election, announced after the Constitutional Court upheld Yoon’s impeachment in April, pits liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung against conservative contender Kim Moon-soo, a former labor minister and Yoon loyalist. The outcome is poised to shape the direction of Asia’s fourth-largest economy amid rising domestic and international challenges.

A Referendum on Yoon’s Legacy

Lee Jae-myung, 61, a seasoned political figure and former human rights lawyer, is widely considered the frontrunner. Often described as a reformist firebrand, Lee has framed the election as a “judgment day for democracy,” aiming to capitalize on the wave of public backlash that followed Yoon’s brief martial law order in December—an act that was swiftly overturned but left an indelible mark on the nation's political landscape.

“This is a moment of reckoning,” Lee declared during his final campaign rally. “A victory for my opponent would open the gates for those who sought to dismantle our democracy. We cannot let the rebellion forces return.”

Lee’s campaign has resonated particularly with younger and economically disenfranchised voters, driven by a platform focused on economic revitalization, reducing inequality, and national reconciliation. He has also promised to restore confidence in democratic institutions and reinforce South Korea’s global standing.

Kim Moon-soo’s Uphill Battle

Meanwhile, Kim Moon-soo has struggled to gain traction beyond his conservative base. His People Power Party remains deeply divided over how to position itself in the wake of Yoon’s downfall. While attempting to position himself as a stabilizing force, Kim has escalated rhetoric against his rival, warning of a slide into authoritarianism if Lee were to win.

“Lee Jae-myung is seeking total control,” Kim said at a campaign stop in Busan. “We are facing a man who, if elected, could consolidate power and stifle dissent, turning South Korea into a dictatorship in the mold of history’s darkest examples.”

Kim has criticized Lee’s party for what he alleges is an attempt to shield its leader from a series of ongoing criminal investigations, including bribery and corruption allegations related to a land development project. Lee has denied all accusations, calling them politically motivated.

A Divided Electorate

Voter turnout is expected to be high, reflecting intense public engagement with what many see as a critical moment for South Korea’s democracy. Over a third of eligible voters—approximately 44.39 million—participated in early voting last week. Polling stations are scheduled to close at 8 p.m. local time, with results anticipated before midnight.

The new president’s five-year term begins immediately on Wednesday, foregoing the customary two-month transition period, in light of the political vacuum left by Yoon’s removal.

The incoming administration will inherit a complex portfolio of domestic and foreign policy challenges: a slowing economy, mounting income disparity, questions about U.S. commitment to the region under President Donald Trump, and escalating tensions with nuclear-armed North Korea.

A Pragmatic Turn in Foreign Policy

While Lee has long been viewed as a progressive reformer, recent statements suggest a more measured approach to foreign affairs. He has pledged to strengthen South Korea’s alliance with the United States, while also seeking to reduce tensions with North Korea—though he acknowledges that the prospect of immediate talks with Kim Jong-un remains uncertain.

“I will safeguard our national security through diplomacy, not provocation,” Lee said, signaling continuity in Seoul’s trilateral alignment with Washington and Tokyo while attempting to differentiate himself from Yoon’s more confrontational posture.

A Test for South Korean Democracy

This election—held under extraordinary circumstances—has come to symbolize the resilience of South Korean democracy, even as the nation grapples with political polarization and institutional stress.

Regardless of who emerges victorious, the next president will face the formidable task of restoring political stability, healing a divided nation, and navigating an increasingly uncertain geopolitical environment.