The 2025 South Korean presidential election, held on June 3, marked a significant political shift following the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party secured victory with 49.42% of the vote, defeating conservative Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, who garnered 41.15%.
All of the candidates remaining in the race were men with no women in the final lineup for the first time since 2007, according to the National Election Commission (NEC). South Korea has only had one female leader, Park Geun-hye.
There are 44.39 million eligible voters, with women accounting for 50.5% of voters, according to data on the electoral roll from the interior ministry.
They also registered a record high turnout with 79,4% or 32,2 Million people.
Lee's ascent to the presidency is notable given his background as a former factory worker and human rights lawyer. His campaign focused on addressing economic inequality, implementing a four-day workweek, and introducing universal basic services. He also proposed constitutional reforms, including allowing presidents to serve two four-year terms and introducing run-off voting.
The election was prompted by Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment over his attempt to impose martial law, leading to a snap election as mandated by the South Korean constitution. Lee's victory reflects public desire for stability and reform in the wake of political turmoil.
Despite his win, Lee faces challenges, including ongoing legal issues from past allegations. His presidency will be closely watched as he navigates domestic reforms and foreign policy, particularly relations with North Korea and the United States.
Candidate | Affiliation | Votes |
Lee Jae-myung | Democratic | 17.3 million - 9.5 million women votes |
Kim Moon-soo | People Power | 14.3 million (41.15%) - 5.6 million women votes |
Lee Jun-seok | Reform Party | 2.9 million (8.34%) - 124 thousand women votes |
Kwon Yeong-guk | Democratic Labour Party | 344,150 (0.98%) |
Song Jin-ho | Independent | 35,791 (0.10%) |