Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party's center-left candidate, is poised to win South Korea's presidential election fueled by voter dissatisfaction with the ousted former President Yoon Suk Yeol. Amid high voter turnout and political uncertainty, Lee pledges to foster economic recovery and rebuild diplomatic ties.
Predictions Point to Lee Jae-myung's Victory in South Korean Presidential Election
Predictions Point to Lee Jae-myung's Victory in South Korean Presidential Election
Exit polls indicate Lee Jae-myung has a commanding lead in the South Korean presidential election following months of political instability and public discontent with the former president's leadership.
June 3, 2025, 10:06 p.m. KST — In a crucial moment for South Korea’s political landscape, exit polls indicate that Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party candidate, is expected to secure the presidency with a sizable majority. The exit poll shows that 51.7% of respondents support Lee, dwarfing the 39.3% backing his main rival, Kim Moon-soo from the right-wing People Power Party. This forecast comes after months of political turmoil triggered by the controversial leadership of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was ousted following a botched martial law declaration that sparked widespread protests.
The turnout for this election exceeded 79%, marking the highest level of public participation in almost three decades, demonstrating South Koreans' engagement amid the evolving political climate. The National Election Commission is anticipated to officially announce the results soon, confirming the prospective win for Lee.
Should he be declared the president, Lee would assume leadership amid pressing challenges including economic stagnation, strained foreign relations, and a polarized political environment. In his campaign, Lee emphasized the need for unity and economic revitalization, vowing to mend ties with China and North Korea while steadfastly maintaining South Korea's alliance with the United States.
In contrast, Kim Moon-soo’s campaign plans to continue the previous administration's policy of aligning closely with the U.S. and Japan, which has drawn criticism for neglecting relations with North Korea and China. Observers note that Lee's leadership might be clouded by ongoing legal issues, as he faces multiple charges that he deems politically motivated, raising questions about governance and political stability during his term.
This election is framed not only as a judgment of Yoon’s presidency but as a referendum on the future direction of South Korean politics, particularly in a country increasingly divided along ideological lines. The aftermath of Yoon's impeachment has left a strong sentiment of disenchantment among young voters, who comprise a significant portion of the electorate, eager for leadership that addresses their concerns over issues like job creation, gender equality, and social justice.
As South Korea awaits the official declaration of its next president, analysts predict a market rally in response to the political stability anticipated with a new administration. The election signifies a pivotal moment in the nation's journey towards addressing complex domestic and international challenges.
The turnout for this election exceeded 79%, marking the highest level of public participation in almost three decades, demonstrating South Koreans' engagement amid the evolving political climate. The National Election Commission is anticipated to officially announce the results soon, confirming the prospective win for Lee.
Should he be declared the president, Lee would assume leadership amid pressing challenges including economic stagnation, strained foreign relations, and a polarized political environment. In his campaign, Lee emphasized the need for unity and economic revitalization, vowing to mend ties with China and North Korea while steadfastly maintaining South Korea's alliance with the United States.
In contrast, Kim Moon-soo’s campaign plans to continue the previous administration's policy of aligning closely with the U.S. and Japan, which has drawn criticism for neglecting relations with North Korea and China. Observers note that Lee's leadership might be clouded by ongoing legal issues, as he faces multiple charges that he deems politically motivated, raising questions about governance and political stability during his term.
This election is framed not only as a judgment of Yoon’s presidency but as a referendum on the future direction of South Korean politics, particularly in a country increasingly divided along ideological lines. The aftermath of Yoon's impeachment has left a strong sentiment of disenchantment among young voters, who comprise a significant portion of the electorate, eager for leadership that addresses their concerns over issues like job creation, gender equality, and social justice.
As South Korea awaits the official declaration of its next president, analysts predict a market rally in response to the political stability anticipated with a new administration. The election signifies a pivotal moment in the nation's journey towards addressing complex domestic and international challenges.
