South Koreans begin early voting ahead of snap presidential election

South Korea opened early voting for its upcoming presidential election on Thursday, with a record turnout as voters prepare to choose a new leader following President Yoon Suk Yeol’s removal from office.

South Korea has begun a two-day early voting period ahead of its snap presidential election, scheduled for 3 June. The election was called after former President Yoon Suk Yeol was removed from office following his controversial imposition of martial law during a brief political crisis.

According to data from the National Election Commission, by 10 a.m. on Thursday, 2.3 million eligible voters had already cast their ballots. This marks a record turnout for early voting, surpassing figures seen during the previous presidential election in 2022.

The snap election comes at a pivotal moment for South Korea, with the country grappling with economic difficulties, political uncertainty, and growing regional tensions. Public interest in the outcome is high, particularly given the abrupt end to Yoon’s presidency.

Election day will be observed as a public holiday to encourage voter participation. The first results are expected to begin coming in by the evening of 3 June.

Leading candidates include Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party and Kim Moon-soo of the conservative People Power Party, both of whom have pledged economic reforms and stronger national unity in the wake of recent instability.

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