SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea is set to conduct a snap presidential election on June 3, aiming to fill the position left vacant by the recent removal of President Yoon Suk Yeol. This announcement was made by the acting leader of the country, Han Duck-soo, on Tuesday. The decision to hold the election follows the Constitutional Court's ruling that ousted President Yoon due to his controversial imposition of martial law back in December. Per South Korean law, a new president must be elected within 60 days of the former president's ouster.
The upcoming election is likely to be strongly influenced by the deep political polarization currently present in the nation. This situation is expected to evolve into a two-way contest primarily between two major political parties: the conservative People Power Party (PPP), which Yoon represented, and its chief liberal rival, the Democratic Party (DP). The People Power Party faces a considerable challenge as it works to rebuild public confidence and mend the significant internal fractures that have arisen from Yoon's martial law initiative.
All eyes are on whether the conservative party will be able to regroup and present a formidable candidate to contend against the anticipated Democratic Party candidate, Lee Jae-myung. According to observers, Lee is considered the clear frontrunner in this political race. As the leader of the DP, he has encountered minimal opposition within his party and is poised to capitalize on the crisis that engulfed the party in recent months.
In addition to Lee, who narrowly lost the previous presidential election in 2022 against Yoon, the Democratic Party has not identified any strong competitors within its ranks. Lee's leadership was crucial during the tumultuous period when members of the DP faced off against troops sent by Yoon to surround the National Assembly, which was followed by votes to lift martial law and subsequently impeach the former president.
On the other hand, approximately ten candidates from the People Power Party are now expected to vie for their party's nomination. The most notable figures among these potential candidates include Labor Minister Kim Moon Soo, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo, former party leader Han Dong-hoon, and senior party lawmaker Ahn Cheol-soo. As the political landscape unfolds, each of these individuals will need to articulate their vision in a bid to successfully lead the PPP into the election.
Political parties in South Korea are anticipated to commence primary elections in the weeks leading up to the presidential race, with candidates aspiring to solidify their platforms and secure their respective nominations. With the significant challenges the People Power Party faces after Yoon's controversial presidency, the party's ability to project unity and a coherent strategy will be vital as they prepare for the electoral contest ahead.
