South Korea’s opposition leader Lee Jae-myung is poised to become the country’s new president after a tense snap election on Tuesday, exit polls suggest. This vote follows six months of political turmoil sparked by a failed martial law declaration that threw the nation into chaos.
According to a joint exit poll by South Korea’s major broadcasters KBS, MBC, and SBS, Lee, 60, representing the liberal Democratic Party, is projected to take 51.7% of the vote. His main opponent, Kim Moon-soo from the conservative People Power Party, is trailing with 39.3%. Official results have yet to be confirmed.
The election was closely watched as South Korea seeks a return to political stability after months of uncertainty. The crisis began last December when former President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in a controversial move that was quickly overturned by lawmakers, leading to Yoon’s impeachment and removal from office earlier this year.
Park Chan-dae, acting leader of the Democratic Party, said Tuesday evening, “These results show the people’s fiery judgement against the insurrection regime.” Voter turnout was strong, reaching 79.3%, according to the National Election Commission.
Lee Jae-myung has long been a polarising figure. Despite facing legal battles and accusations of corruption, he maintained a lead throughout the campaign. If the official count confirms the exit polls, Lee could be sworn in as early as Wednesday.
South Korea faces significant challenges ahead. The economy has slowed, with rising living costs and decreased consumer spending. Trade talks with the United States remain unresolved, especially concerning tariffs imposed under the Trump administration. The country also grapples with demographic shifts, including an aging population and a declining birth rate. On the international stage, tensions persist with China and North Korea, adding complexity to Lee’s future presidency.
This election marks a crucial moment for South Korea, with many hoping it will restore calm and clear direction after a turbulent six months.
