SEOUL – An unprecedented number of South Koreans participated in the first day of early voting for the forthcoming parliamentary elections, signaling strong public engagement in a contest viewed as a crucial judgment on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s administration.
According to Yonhap News Agency, a record 6,910,510 individuals, out of 44,280,011 eligible voters, exercised their voting rights on Friday, marking a turnout of 15.61 percent. This figure surpasses previous records for the first day of early voting in general elections since the system was introduced in 2014, highlighting a significant rise in electoral participation.
Voters across the nation visited 3,565 polling stations to cast their ballots in advance of the main vote on Wednesday, which will determine the composition of the new 300-member National Assembly. Notably, the turnout reflects a marked increase from the 5.45 percent in 2016 and 12.14 percent in 2020, although it fell short of the 17.57 percent record set during the 2022 presidential election.
Regions across South Korea showed robust engagement, with every one of the 17 major cities and provinces reporting turnout above 10 percent. South Jeolla Province led with 23.6 percent, followed by other regions, indicating widespread voter involvement across the country.
This election is particularly consequential for the ruling People Power Party (PPP) and the opposition Democratic Party (DP), each vying for parliamentary dominance. The outcome will significantly impact President Yoon’s ability to govern, with a loss potentially undermining his authority for the rest of his term.
Both party leaders have been vocal in urging citizens to vote early, emphasizing the influence of early turnout on the election’s final results. High participation in early voting is perceived by the DP as advantageous, setting ambitious targets based on historical turnout data.
As political leaders and citizens alike demonstrate their commitment to democratic participation, the nation awaits the culmination of this pivotal electoral process, set to shape South Korea’s legislative landscape for the coming years.
ZCZC