South Korea's Political Shift: Exit Polls Indicate Opposition Leader's Likely Victory

Following the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party is poised for a substantial victory in South Korea's presidential election, as recent exit polls showcase a clear lead over his rival. Political tensions still loom as Lee faces ongoing trials, while voter turnout reaches a significant high, demonstrating the populace's engagement amidst the current political landscape.

June 3, 2025, 10:06 p.m. Seoul - In a dramatic turn of events spurred by months of political instability, Lee Jae-myung, the center-left candidate representing South Korea’s Democratic Party, is set to become the next president. Exit polls conducted by the country's major television networks show him leading against his rival, Kim Moon-soo of the right-wing People Power Party, by a margin of approximately 12 percentage points.

These results are rooted in significant discontent over the former administration led by Yoon Suk Yeol, who faced impeachment after attempting to impose martial law last December. Voter sentiment appears to have shifted dramatically against the former president, manifesting in resounding support for Lee Jae-myung, who reportedly secured 51.7% of the votes, compared to Kim’s 39.3%.

The exit polls were broadcast just after polls closed at 8 p.m. local time. Historically, South Korean exit polls have accurately predicted presidential outcomes, raising anticipation for the official results expected from the National Election Commission on Wednesday morning. If declared the winner, Lee will assume power backed by a parliamentary majority, allowing him to enact significant policies.

This election has seen an unprecedented voter turnout exceeding 79%, marking the highest engagement since 1997, emphasizing public interest in resolving ongoing political discord. Analysts predict Lee’s leadership will face immediate challenges, including a struggling economy and rising tensions with neighboring nations.

Campaign promises from Lee have emphasized healing political divisions and fostering an economic recovery. He seeks to balance relationships with China and North Korea while maintaining a strong alliance with the United States, contrasting with Kim's approach, which aligns more closely with Yoon’s previously confrontational foreign policy.

Despite Lee's favorable position in the polls, his candidacy is clouded by ongoing legal battles regarding multiple criminal allegations, which he claims are politically motivated. Experts suggest that the outcome of these cases may overshadow his presidency.

As the nation awaits formal election outcomes, South Koreans are also reflecting on the political turmoil that has defined the past six months since Yoon’s impeachment, highlighting a deeply divided electorate and the urgent need for national unity. Candidates of all stripes have acknowledged the pervasive sense of polarization and expressed the necessity of reconciliation moving forward.

With mixed feelings, young voters who previously took to the streets to protest against Yoon now worry about the candidates' commitment to their pressing concerns, including gender equality and employment opportunities. Some remain undecided, uncertain about which candidate will best address their needs in a politically fractured landscape.

As the nation moves beyond a turbulent chapter in its political history, the emerging leadership will face the monumental task of restoring public trust and addressing a diverse array of socio-economic challenges.