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5h ago

Lee Jae-myung Maintains Strong Lead Following First Televised Debate

As South Korea's snap presidential election nears, candidates intensify efforts to sway swing voters in a politically turbulent landscape.

Four presidential candidates -- (From L to R) Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, Kwon Young-kook of the minor Democratic Labor Party, Lee Jun-seok of the minor New Reform Party and Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party -- pose for a photo ahead of their first televised debate on May 18, 2025. (Pool photo) (Yonhap)
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Overview

  • Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party leads the polls with 50.2% support, ahead of Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, who holds 35.6%.
  • The first televised debate on May 18 highlighted sharp contrasts in economic recovery plans, with Lee advocating active-state policies and Kim prioritizing deregulation and market-driven solutions.
  • Both candidates addressed trade strategies under US tariffs, with Lee urging a cautious approach to negotiations and Kim proposing an immediate summit with President Trump if elected.
  • Lee called for constitutional reforms, including a two-term presidency and restrictions on martial law powers, emphasizing accountability following Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment.
  • Campaigns are now targeting swing voters in key Seoul districts, with speculation over potential conservative candidate unification remaining unresolved.