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South Korea's Presidential Race Intensifies as Supreme Court Fast-Tracks Lee Jae-myung's Appeal

The Supreme Court schedules a second hearing on Lee's election law case, while both major parties advance their primary processes ahead of the June 3 snap election.

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Three candidates in the liberal Democratic Party's primary to choose its flag bearer for the June 3 presidential election -- (from L to R) Gyeonggi Gov. Kim Dong-yeon, former South Gyeongsang Gov. Kim Kyoung-soo and Lee Jae-myung, former leader of the party -- pose for a photo prior to their first debate hosted by the MBC TV network in Seoul on April 18, 2025. (Pool photo) (Yonhap)

Overview

  • The Supreme Court's full bench will hold a second hearing on Lee Jae-myung's election law violation case on April 24, signaling an expedited review process before the June 3 election.
  • Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party's front-runner, leads opinion polls with 50.2% support, while adopting a cautious, low-profile campaign strategy to avoid controversy.
  • The People Power Party has shortlisted four candidates—Kim Moon-soo, Ahn Cheol-soo, Han Dong-hoon, and Hong Joon-pyo—for its second primary phase, with a final nominee to be confirmed on May 3.
  • Lee's acquittal by the Seoul High Court in March is under review by the Supreme Court; a guilty verdict with a fine exceeding ₩1 million could disqualify him from office for 10 years.
  • Democratic Party candidates, including Lee, are participating in debates and regional primaries, with the party's nominee set to be finalized by April 27.