What's happened
As South Korea approaches its presidential election on June 3, opposition candidate Lee Jae-myung leads with 45% support, while ruling party candidate Kim Moon-soo has gained ground at 36%. The election follows the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, whose martial law declaration has left the conservative party in turmoil.
What's behind the headline?
Key Dynamics of the Election
- Polling Trends: Lee Jae-myung's support has decreased by 6 percentage points, while Kim Moon-soo's has increased by 7 points, indicating a tightening race.
- Three-Way Contest: The potential for a three-way race, including Reform Party candidate Lee Jun-seok, complicates the dynamics. If Kim and Lee Jun-seok can unify, they may pose a significant challenge to Lee Jae-myung.
- Voter Sentiment: The electorate is increasingly expressing their preferences, with undecided voters dwindling, suggesting a more engaged voter base as the election date approaches.
- Economic Concerns: Economic issues, including trade relations with the U.S. and domestic recovery, are pivotal topics influencing voter decisions. Kim's promise to negotiate directly with President Trump contrasts with Lee's caution against hasty agreements.
- Security and Stability: The backdrop of political violence and threats against candidates, particularly Lee Jae-myung, underscores the heightened tensions in South Korea's political landscape. This election is not just about policies but also about restoring public trust and stability in governance.
What the papers say
According to The Japan Times, Lee Jae-myung leads with 45% in a recent Gallup Korea poll, a drop from previous weeks, while Kim Moon-soo's support has risen to 36%. Bloomberg corroborates this trend, noting Kim's 7-point gain. The South China Morning Post highlights the implications of a potential three-way race, emphasizing the need for conservative candidates to unify to challenge Lee effectively. The political turmoil following Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment remains a critical backdrop, as noted by multiple sources, including AP News and the New York Times, which detail the ongoing struggles within the People Power Party and the broader implications for South Korea's governance.
How we got here
The upcoming election is a response to the political instability caused by former President Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment over his controversial martial law declaration. Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party has emerged as the frontrunner, while Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party is attempting to consolidate support amid internal party strife.
Go deeper
- What are the main issues in the election?
- How has the impeachment of Yoon Suk-yeol affected the race?
- What strategies are candidates using to win over voters?
Common question
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What Happened to South Korea's Presidential Candidate?
On May 10, 2025, South Korea's political landscape shifted dramatically as the People Power Party (PPP) replaced its presidential candidate just weeks before the election. This unexpected change raises questions about the motivations behind the decision and its implications for the upcoming election. Below, we explore the key issues surrounding this political upheaval.
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Why Are Southern Accents Fading Among Younger Generations?
The decline of Southern accents among younger generations has sparked curiosity and concern about cultural identity in the South. As demographic shifts and changing perceptions influence regional dialects, many wonder what this means for the future of Southern culture. Below, we explore the factors contributing to this trend and its implications.
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Who are the main candidates in South Korea's presidential race?
As South Korea gears up for its presidential election on June 3, 2025, the political landscape is heating up with key candidates emerging from the major parties. This election is particularly significant as it follows the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, making it a pivotal moment for the country's future. Here’s what you need to know about the candidates and the issues at stake.
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Why Did Yoon Suk-yeol Leave the People Power Party?
Yoon Suk-yeol's departure from the People Power Party (PPP) has sent shockwaves through South Korean politics. As the country gears up for the June 3 presidential election, many are left wondering what this means for the future of the PPP and the political landscape in South Korea. Below, we explore the implications of Yoon's exit and the reactions from various political factions.
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What is Causing Political Turmoil in South Korea and the US?
Political instability is gripping both South Korea and the United States, with significant implications for upcoming elections. As former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol departs from the People Power Party and concerns grow over President Biden's health, many are left wondering how these developments will shape the political landscape. Below are some common questions regarding these events.
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What Can We Learn from Global Election Strategies?
As political landscapes shift worldwide, understanding the strategies employed by candidates can provide valuable insights. From South Korea's internal party conflicts to the challenges faced by the Democratic Party in the U.S., these lessons can shape future electoral outcomes. Here are some common questions about election strategies and their implications.
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What are the latest polling numbers for South Korea's presidential candidates?
As South Korea gears up for its presidential election on June 3, the political landscape is shifting rapidly. With the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol causing turmoil within the ruling party, voters are closely watching the candidates and their platforms. Here are some key questions surrounding the election dynamics.
More on these topics
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Lee Jae-myung is a South Korean politician and attorney who has been serving as Governor of Gyeonggi Province since 2018. Prior to this, he served as Mayor of Seongnam, the tenth largest city in South Korea, from 2010 to 2018.
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Kim Moon-soo may refer to:
Kim Moon-soo (politician) (born 1951), Korean politician and the 32nd Governor of Gyeonggi Province, Korea
Kim Moon-soo (badminton) (born 1963), former badminton player from South Korea
Kim Moon-soo (novelist) (1939-2012) Korea
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South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea, is a country in East Asia, constituting the southern part of the Korean Peninsula and sharing a land border with North Korea.
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Han Duck-soo is a South Korean politician who served as the 34th Prime Minister of South Korea, from 2007 until February 2008, and as the ambassador to the United States from 2009 to 2013.
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People Power Party may refer to:
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The People Power Party (PPP; Korean: 국민의힘; lit. Power of Nationals) is a conservative and right-wing political party in South Korea. It is the second-largest party in the National Assembly. The PPP, along with its historic rival, the Democratic Pa