🇰🇷 Korea’s Big Change: Understanding the 2025 Presidential Election and Its Impact
Overview of South Korea’s 2025 Presidential Election
If you're curious about what's happening politically in South Korea lately, you've come to the right place! Recently, South Korea held an important presidential election on June 3, 2025. But why did this happen earlier than usual, and what does it mean for Korea’s future? Let’s break it down simply and clearly.
Why Was There an Early Presidential Election?
In December 2024, South Korea faced a significant political crisis when then-President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law, citing security concerns. This decision triggered massive public protests and widespread political backlash. As a result, President Yoon was impeached and ultimately removed from office by Korea’s Constitutional Court in April 2025. This unusual event led to an early presidential election to choose a new leader quickly.
Meet the Candidates: Who Were They and What Did They Promise?
Lee Jae-myung (Democratic Party) – The Winner!
- Who is he?
Lee Jae-myung served as Mayor of Seongnam City and Governor of Gyeonggi Province. Known as a human rights lawyer, Lee grew up in poverty and overcame difficult circumstances, making him relatable to many voters. - His key promises:
- Invest 100 trillion KRW ($73 billion) in cutting-edge industries like AI to boost the economy.
- Introduce a universal basic income for young people and rural residents to reduce inequality.
- Strengthen South Korea’s alliance with the U.S., while also maintaining balanced diplomatic relations with North Korea, China, and Russia.
- Why people liked him:
Lee’s pragmatic approach appealed broadly, and voters liked his balanced vision for domestic growth and sensible foreign policy.
Kim Moon-soo (People Power Party)
- Who is he?
Kim Moon-soo has a long political history, serving previously as Minister of Employment and Labor and Governor of Gyeonggi Province. He is a conservative politician who prioritizes national security and economic freedom. - His key promises:
- Offer tax cuts and deregulation to stimulate economic growth.
- Take a strong stance on national security, particularly against North Korea, and strengthen the military alliance with the U.S.
- Emphasize traditional family values and maintain conservative social policies.
- Why people supported him:
Kim appealed strongly to conservative voters, especially those concerned about security, economic freedom, and traditional values.
Lee Jun-seok (Reform Innovation Party)
- Who is he?
Lee Jun-seok is known as a young political reformer and former leader of the People Power Party. He gained popularity with younger voters by challenging traditional politics. - His key promises:
- Reduce presidential powers and implement a smaller, more efficient government.
- Ensure fairness in military service obligations, regardless of gender, and promote gender equality.
- Advocate a strong trilateral alliance among South Korea, the U.S., and Japan, and adopt a firm stance towards North Korea.
- Why people found him appealing:
Young voters especially liked Lee for his fresh perspective, innovative ideas, and willingness to tackle traditional political issues openly.
Election Results at a Glance
- Lee Jae-myung: 49.42% (Winner)
- Kim Moon-soo: 41.15%
- Lee Jun-seok: 8.34%
Lee Jae-myung officially became President immediately after winning on June 4, 2025.
What’s Next for South Korea?
Politics
With Lee Jae-myung’s victory, his Democratic Party now controls both the presidency and the National Assembly, providing stability for implementing his policy ideas. However, bringing unity and overcoming social divisions remain key challenges.
Economy
South Korea faces ongoing global challenges, such as trade protectionism and shifting international supply chains. Lee’s government plans major investments in technology like AI to stimulate growth, while also supporting small businesses and reducing social inequalities.
Foreign Relations
President Lee aims to maintain a close partnership with the U.S. but also intends to improve relations with North Korea, China, and Russia. Diplomatic efforts will likely focus heavily on resolving the North Korean nuclear issue and establishing lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula.
The 2025 presidential election was more than just a political event—it marked a significant turning point for Korean democracy. Under President Lee Jae-myung’s leadership, South Korea is entering a new chapter, aiming for political stability, economic innovation, and balanced diplomacy. It's definitely an exciting time to watch Korea closely!
