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eNCA
4 hours ago
- Politics
- eNCA
South Koreans rally for presidential hopefuls days before vote
Thousands of supporters of South Korea's two leading presidential candidates rallied in Seoul on Saturday, three days before a vote triggered by the ex-leader's disastrous declaration of martial law. Tuesday's election caps months of political turmoil sparked by Yoon Suk Yeol's brief suspension of civilian rule in December, for which he was impeached and removed from office. All major polls have put liberal Lee Jae-myung well ahead in the presidential race, with a recent Gallup survey showing 49 percent of respondents viewed him as the best candidate. Kim Moon-soo, from the conservative People Power Party (PPP) that Yoon left this month, trailed Lee on 35 percent. Organisers from both camps told police they expected tens of thousands of supporters to rally in Seoul on Saturday. In Seocho, in the south of the capital, Lee supporters gathered holding signs condemning Yoon's "insurrection". "I believe the outcome of the presidential election is already decided," Lee Kyung-joon, a Lee supporter, told AFP. "I came to today's rally to help condemn the forces involved in the martial law attempt," he said, referring to ex-president Yoon's political allies. Yoon is on trial for insurrection and Kwon Oh-hyeok, one of the organisers of Saturday's rally, said a Lee Jae-myung victory in Tuesday's vote was crucial to holding him accountable. "Isn't the People Power Party's decision to run in the snap election -- triggered by Yoon's removal from office -- an insult and a betrayal of the people?" Kwon told rally participants. "Fellow citizens, we must win by a landslide to deliver the justice this moment demands." In Gwanghwamun Square on the other side of town, conservatives -- including supporters of disgraced ex-leader Yoon -- filled the streets holding signs that read "Yoon Again" and "Early voting is invalid!" Yoon's martial law attempt, which he claimed was necessary to "root out" pro–North Korean, "anti-state" forces, emboldened a wave of extreme supporters including far-right YouTubers and radical religious figures. AFP | Pedro Pardo Many have spread unverified content online, including allegations of Chinese espionage and fraud within South Korea's electoral system. That sentiment was on full display at Saturday's conservative rally, where protesters called for the dissolution of the National Election Commission over a series of mishaps during the two-day early voting period this week. "People believe the root of all these problems lies with the National Election Commission, and that it should be held accountable," protester Rhee Kang-san told AFP. Ex-president Yoon sent a message to the conservative rally through a group led by a far-right Christian figure, which was read aloud by a supporter on his behalf. "Our country is now facing a grave and unprecedented crisis," Yoon's message said, urging people to vote for the PPP candidate Kim. "If we miss this opportunity, we may have to pay a heavy price in time and sacrifice, and the restoration of free democracy and a normal state may no longer be possible," the former president said, according to supporter Lee Dong-ho, who read the message aloud and shared it with AFP. - Deepening polarisation - Both frontrunner Lee Jae-myung of the liberal Democratic Party and conservative challenger Kim have cast the race as a battle for the soul of the country. More than a third of those eligible cast their ballots in early voting on Thursday and Friday, according to the election commission. AFP | ANTHONY WALLACE Overseas voting reached a record high, with nearly four-fifths of the 1.97 million eligible voters casting their ballots last week. Experts say that, regardless of who wins, South Korea's polarisation is likely to deepen. If Lee wins, the conservatives "will do whatever it takes to undermine him and his government, whether their logic makes sense or not", political analyst Park Sang-byung told AFP. "Unless the PPP distances itself from Yoon's extremist base, it could turn to misinformation -- such as unfounded claims of election fraud -- to mobilise the right against Lee. That's a troubling prospect," he said. Whoever succeeds Yoon will also have to grapple with a worsening economic downturn, one of the world's lowest birth rates, the soaring cost of living and bellicose neighbour North Korea. He will also have to navigate a mounting superpower standoff between the United States, South Korea's traditional security guarantor, and China, its largest trade partner. By Claire Lee
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First Post
5 hours ago
- Politics
- First Post
South Korea's Presidential election: What's at stake
Following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol in April, after his unconstitutional declaration of martial law, the election has become a referendum on the future of South Korea's democracy read more South Korea's presidential candidates Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party shakes hands with Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party prepare for the second televised debate for the upcoming presidential election in Seoul, South Korea. Reuters As South Koreans prepare to vote in a snap presidential election on June 3, the stakes extend far beyond choosing the country's next leader. Following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol in April, after his unconstitutional declaration of martial law, the election has become a referendum on the future of South Korea's democracy. Political stability Constitutional reform is at the heart of South Korea's political debate. Both leading presidential candidates, Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party and Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, support replacing the current single five-year term with two four-year terms to strengthen executive accountability. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The urgency follows President Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment after he declared martial law, citing 'anti-state forces' in the opposition-controlled parliament. Widely seen as executive overreach, the move has sparked calls for stronger checks on presidential power. Lee Jae-myung has proposed further reforms, including a requirement for parliamentary approval within 24 hours of any martial law declaration, to ensure democratic oversight. Economic growth and stability South Korea's economy is grappling with rapid automation, the rise of artificial intelligence, and a widening gap between high-skilled and low-skilled jobs. These trends have destabilized the middle class, particularly among the youth, leading to mounting concerns over job security and economic opportunity. With high youth unemployment and growing discontent among job seekers, especially those avoiding low-paid positions in small and medium-sized enterprises, the economy is a top concern for voters. Both major candidates have pledged to revitalize the economy but differ on strategies—Lee favours innovation and inclusive growth, while Kim emphasizes business-led expansion. Relations with North Korea The next president will be tasked with recalibrating the nation's long-standing policy on North Korea. Lee advocates for a more moderate approach, including diplomatic engagement and dialogue with Pyongyang. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He also supports improving ties with China and Russia, while maintaining a stable alliance with the United States. By contrast, conservative voices call for a firmer stance toward the North, focusing on deterrence and military readiness. How the next president approaches inter-Korean relations could shape peace and stability on the peninsula. Regional and geopolitical tensions South Korea finds itself navigating increasingly complex geopolitical dynamics amid rising tensions between the US and China. Strategic decisions on trade, security, and diplomacy, particularly regarding military cooperation and semiconductor exports, are under global scrutiny. The election will likely determine whether South Korea leans more heavily into its alliance with Washington or seeks a more balanced diplomatic approach in the region. Yoon's relationship between Japan and South Korea was reasonably peaceful and forward-looking, in contrast to his Democratic Party predecessor, Moon Jae-in. As the current campaigns come to an end, Lee, also from the Democratic Party, has a high chance of becoming the next president. Tokyo is concerned that under Lee, relations may worsen once further, particularly if the new government emphasises the horrific history of Japan's colonial control and wartime crimes. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Social divisions Cultural shifts and the growing visibility of gender equality movements have led to stark generational and ideological divides. Young men, frustrated by job competition and mandatory military service, have shown increasing support for conservative candidates and anti-feminist rhetoric. Meanwhile, young women are turning toward progressive politics, supporting gender reform and social justice. These divergent views have formed opposing political coalitions, making gender politics a defining factor in the election. The divide has already reshaped the political landscape, including the historic election of a record number of female lawmakers in 2024. Demographic challenges South Korea's aging population and record-low fertility rate, the lowest in the OECD, have exposed major shortcomings in the country's welfare and care systems. Women, who often carry the burden of unpaid elder and child care, are demanding policy solutions that support work-life balance and gender equity. Candidates are under pressure to address these systemic issues, which are key to long-term social and economic sustainability. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The real question in this election is not just who wins, but what kind of democracy South Korea will choose for its future. Will the country continue to concentrate power in the presidency, or will new, inclusive coalitions reshape the democratic framework? As South Korea stands at a political crossroads, the June 3 election could define not only the next presidency, but the very fabric of its democracy.
News18
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Why K-pop Idols Are Avoiding ‘V' Sign Ahead Of South Korea's Presidential Election
Last Updated: With South Korea's presidential election scheduled for June 3, celebrities are extremely cautious about hand gestures to avoid controversy. As the South Korean presidential election nears, K-pop idols have become increasingly cautious about their hand gestures and poses amid rising controversy over political symbolism. The 21st presidential election in the country is set to take place on June 3 to replace Yoon Suk Yeol. Yeol was removed from his office for placing the country under martial law for six hours in December last year. The incident had led to widespread protests and criticism. Since then, South Korea has seen three acting presidents. Now, the country is preparing for an election to choose a new leader. With this, K-pop idols have started avoiding certain gestures and poses while making public appearances. On May 27, NMIXX's Bae flashed a 'V' sign during a YouTube livestream. She immediately realised and said, 'No! Don't do the V!" and held her head in distress. Sullyoon tried to smooth things over with a similar pose. As part of a challenge ending pose, she hesitantly made a 'V' sign. Worried about its possible political interpretations, she then quickly showed all numbers from one to five with her fingers instead, as reported by AllKpop. The precautions come as the sign is linked to the conservative People Power Party in South Korea. The gesture can be seen as a symbol of support, since the party is represented by 'number 2" on the ballot and the colour red. As a result, celebrities have been extra cautious, fearing that their gestures could be misinterpreted as a political endorsement. The boy group, Tomorrow X Together (TXT), was also captured making a neutral pose in a photo shared on their social media. The five-membered group, which is typically seen making the 'V' gesture as a popular greeting among many K-pop groups, clenched their fists as they posed for the camera. Similarly, during a group photo on their May 24 YouTube live broadcast, members of the virtual group PLAVE were also seen carefully folding their fingers while posing. ZEROBASEONE's Kim Tae Rae hurriedly edited a picture after he posed with a 'V' sign, and even RIIZE's Shotaro had to quickly change his pose upon realising that he made the same sign. The South Korean presidential elections are typically held in the winter. However, due to the incident linked to Yeol, the schedule has been moved up, leading to an early election this year. First Published:
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First Post
7 hours ago
- Politics
- First Post
Youth unemployment: A decisive factor in the upcoming election in South Korea
With their economic future at stake, young South Koreans are becoming a decisive voting bloc in this snap election read more A man walks past banners showing South Korea's presidential candidates displayed along a wall ahead of the upcoming June 3 election in Seoul. AFP As South Korea heads into a pivotal presidential election on June 3, youth unemployment has emerged as one of the most pressing and divisive issues on the campaign trail, highlighting deep economic concerns and a widening social divide. The youth unemployment rate hit 5.9% in December 2024 and is projected to rise to 6.3% by mid-2025. While the numbers may seem moderate, they reveal deeper problems. The employment rate for South Koreans aged 15 to 29 fell to 44.8% in January 2025, with 218,000 jobs lost—the steepest drop in four years. Many of those who are employed work in ultra-short-term or unstable jobs, and nearly 30% of PhD holders under 30 remain jobless, signaling a mismatch between education and job market needs. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Young voters could sway the outcome With their economic future at stake, young South Koreans are becoming a decisive voting bloc in this snap election. Each major candidate has taken a different approach: Lee Jae-myung (Democratic Party) promises to create new job opportunities through investments in artificial intelligence and Korea's cultural wave, including music and entertainment. Kim Moon-soo (People Power Party) has focused more on business-friendly policies and foreign relations, offering fewer direct solutions for youth unemployment. Lee Jun-seok (Reform Party) has gained traction among young male voters by vowing to abolish the gender ministry and address what he calls 'reverse discrimination' in the workplace. A sharp gender divide The youth vote is also deeply split by gender. Many young men back conservative candidates, voicing frustrations over mandatory military service and job competition. Meanwhile, young women are leaning toward progressive policies and gender equality, resisting what they see as growing misogyny in politics. This gender divide mirrors global patterns, where younger men are increasingly drawn to right-wing politics, while younger women align with progressive causes. Why aren't young people taking jobs? Despite the unemployment crisis, many young South Koreans are reluctant to work for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), citing lower wages, fewer benefits, and less social prestige. In 2024, only 30.9% of SME employees were in their 20s and 30s, a sharp drop from 47.7% in 2003. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Local governments step in In the absence of comprehensive national reforms, local governments are taking action: Busan allocated 75.2 billion won to job training and career support. Gwangju is connecting young job seekers with local employers and offering job-seeking allowances. Cheonan invested 2 billion won in youth employment programs. These efforts aim to improve job matching, provide training, and reduce the economic strain on young people. As voters head to the polls, youth unemployment remains one of the most urgent challenges—and could very well shape the direction of South Korea's future.
Yahoo
10 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
South Koreans rally for presidential hopefuls days before vote
Thousands of supporters of South Korea's two leading presidential candidates rallied on Saturday in Seoul, days before a vote triggered by the ex-leader's disastrous declaration of martial law. Tuesday's election caps months of political turmoil sparked by Yoon Suk Yeol's brief suspension of civilian rule in December, for which he was impeached and removed from office. All major polls have placed liberal Lee Jae-myung well ahead in the presidential race, with a recent Gallup survey showing 49 percent of respondents viewed him as the best candidate. Kim Moon-soo, from the conservative People Power Party (PPP) that Yoon left this month, trailed behind at 35 percent. Organisers from both camps told police they expected tens of thousands of supporters to rally in Seoul on Saturday. In Seocho, in the south of the capital, Lee supporters gathered holding signs condemning Yoon's "insurrection". "I believe the outcome of the presidential election is already decided," Lee Kyung-joon, a Lee supporter, told AFP. "I came to today's rally to help condemn the forces involved in the martial law attempt," he added, referring to ex-president Yoon's political allies. Yoon is currently on trial for insurrection, and Kwon Oh-hyeok, one of the organisers of Saturday's rally, said a Lee victory in the June 3 vote was crucial to holding him accountable. "Isn't the People Power Party's decision to run in the snap election -- triggered by Yoon's removal from office -- an insult and a betrayal of the people?" Kwon told rally participants. "Fellow citizens, we must win by a landslide to deliver the justice this moment demands." On the other side of town, in Gwanghwamun Square, conservatives -- including supporters of disgraced ex-leader Yoon -- filled the streets holding signs that read "Yoon Again" and "Early voting is invalid!" Yoon's martial law attempt, which he claimed was necessary to "root out" pro–North Korean, "anti-state" forces, emboldened a wave of extreme supporters including far-right YouTubers and radical religious figures. Many have spread unverified content online, including allegations of Chinese espionage and fraud within South Korea's electoral system. That sentiment was on full display at Saturday's rally, where protesters called for the dissolution of the National Election Commission over a series of mishaps during the two-day early voting period this week. "People believe the root of all these problems lies with the National Election Commission, and that it should be held accountable," conservative protester Rhee Kang-san told AFP. - Deepening polarisation - Both frontrunner Lee of the liberal Democratic Party and conservative challenger Kim have cast the race as a battle for the soul of the country. More than a third of those eligible cast their ballots in early voting on Thursday and Friday, according to the election commission. Overseas voting reached a record high, with nearly four-fifths of the 1.97 million eligible voters casting their ballots last week. Experts say that regardless of who wins, South Korea's polarisation is likely to deepen. If Lee wins, the conservatives "will do whatever it takes to undermine him and his government, whether their logic makes sense or not", political analyst Park Sang-byung told AFP. "Unless the PPP distances itself from Yoon's extremist base, it could turn to misinformation -- such as unfounded claims of election fraud -- to mobilise the right against Lee. That's a troubling prospect," he said. Whoever succeeds Yoon will also have to grapple with a worsening economic downturn, one of the world's lowest birth rates, the soaring cost of living and bellicose neighbour North Korea. He will also have to navigate a mounting superpower standoff between the United States, South Korea's traditional security guarantor, and China, its largest trade partner. cdl/oho/pst
