South Korea Holds Presidential Election Amid Political Crisis

South Korea is preparing for a pivotal presidential election on June 3, following a turbulent political crisis triggered by former President Yoon Suk Yeol's unconstitutional martial law declaration and subsequent impeachment. The frontrunner, liberal Lee Jae-myung, holds a significant lead in polls, reflecting public desire for bold leadership and change after months of instability and caretaker governments. Both major candidates, Lee Jae-myung and conservative Kim Moon-soo, advocate for historic constitutional reforms aimed at reshaping presidential powers, including proposals for two four-year terms, a run-off election system, and decentralizing authority. Kim has additionally pledged to reduce his own term if elected and remove presidential immunity, signaling bipartisan support for reform after decades without constitutional amendments. The election is also notable for the absence of female candidates and a demographic shift toward an aging voter base, with election security and transparency measures in place. Overall, the vote represents a critical moment for South Korea to restore political stability and address governance challenges in a complex domestic and regional context.