Fri May 30 05:33:19 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Record Early Voting Signals End to Political Turmoil in South Korea**

**SEOUL, South Korea** – South Korea is witnessing a surge in early voting ahead of the upcoming presidential election, with over 12 million voters, or more than a quarter of the 44.3 million eligible voters, already casting their ballots. This record turnout suggests a nation eager to put an end to months of political turbulence following the impeachment of former President Yoon Sook-yeol.

Early voting, which concluded today, precedes the official election on Tuesday, where South Koreans will choose Yoon’s replacement. Yoon’s controversial actions, including a brief imposition of martial law that was later overturned by the National Assembly, triggered a political firestorm and ultimately led to his impeachment and removal from office in April.

The latest polls indicate Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung as the frontrunner, with 42.9% support, followed by Kim Moon-soo of the conservative People Power Party (PPP) with 36.8%. Trailing behind is Lee Jun-seok of the New Reform Party with 10.3% support.

According to Seoul-based journalist David Lee, voter turnout has been particularly high in Democratic Party-affiliated regions, while conservative strongholds like Gyeongsang Province are showing lower engagement. “The morale at the Democratic Camp is much more energetic, especially after the historic impeachment trial,” Lee told Al Jazeera. “PPP supporters, on the other hand, are navigating murkier waters.”

The election period has also been marked by heightened tensions and concerns. Fraud conspiracy theories, fueled by the early voting system, have spread online. Police have reported a surge in vandalism of campaign materials, with at least 690 people apprehended for related incidents. Frontrunner Lee Jae-myung has even taken to wearing a bulletproof vest and installing bulletproof glass at rallies due to threats on his life. Police have also investigated numerous social media threats against Lee and other candidates.

This election is poised to bring stability and resolution to a nation grappling with deep political divisions and a desire for a fresh start.

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