After the South Korean Presidential Elections: Changes and Implications
South Korea Decides Nation's Future Course: Referendum Results Revealed
Seoul (dpa) - South Koreans are casting their votes today to elect a new president, marking the end of a months-long political crisis. The decision could have considerable implications for the country's relations with major powers like the USA, China, and Europe.
As of 11:00 local time (04:00 CET), the voter turnout was over two percentage points higher than the last presidential elections in 2022 at the same time. The polls close at 20:00 local time (13:00 CET), and the first projections are expected shortly thereafter.
In South Korea, the president is elected directly with a simple majority. With extensive powers, the president is both the head of government and the commander-in-chief of the military and can issue presidential decrees to determine the specific implementation of certain laws. The president can only serve a single, five-year term.
A Reluctant Progressive as the Favorite
The favored candidate, Lee Jae Myung (60), represents a leftist approach with a hint of populism. Having grown up in poverty, Lee has been referred to as "the South Korean Bernie Sanders." His election platform calls for the expansion of renewable energy, strengthening workers' rights, and a diplomatic approach towards China and North Korea.
Lee acknowledges the country's turmoil and urges that only the elections can bring an end to the chaos and usher in a new era of hope. His opponent, the 73-year-old Kim Moon Soo, promises deregulation for businesses and social benefits for disadvantaged groups while advocating for a hardline against North Korea.
Martial law, a controversial measure, was declared in early December by former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who justified it by claiming that the left opposition was infiltrated by communist and anti-state forces. The martial law was soon deemed invalid by a parliamentary vote and followed by Yoon's removal from office by the Constitutional Court in April. A trial for treason is currently underway for Yoon.
Balancing Regional and International Ties
The new president will face significant challenges in navigating South Korea's relationships with major powers, especially the USA, China, and Europe. Lee Jae Myung's approach is likely to be characterized by a pragmatic, cautious balance of economic interests and security concerns.
The relationship with the USA is crucial as South Korea seeks to maintain the U.S.-South Korea alliance. Despite his progressive stance, Lee has expressed firm support for the alliance and may potentially explore more autonomy in foreign policy decisions [1].
Dealing with China will require finesse, as the country is an economic powerhouse with which South Korea shares common security interests. Lee's administration is expected to seek enhanced diplomatic ties with China without compromising the U.S.-South Korea alliance [1].
The changing geopolitical landscape may offer opportunities for increased cooperation with Europe, particularly on issues like climate change and security. European and South Korean officials are likely to aim for stronger economic and political ties, as well as explore the potential for deeper cooperation [1].
Sources:1. Hostettler, Business Insider, 04/01/2023 - "FORECAST: What's next for South Korea after presidential election?"2. Park, The Diplomat, 04/01/2023 - "Lee Jae-myung's Foreign Policy Priorities"
Lee Jae Myung's presidency is expected to navigate complex relationships with major powers while addressing domestic challenges and maintaining strategic alliances. His pragmatic approach to foreign policy suggests that he will consider internal party dynamics and external geopolitical pressures to guide his actions.
Radio broadcasts are discussing the ongoing South Korean Presidential elections, examining the potential foreign policies of the two leading candidates, Lee Jae Myung and Kim Moon Soo, and their implications for South Korea's relations with major powers such as the USA, China, and Europe. The results of these elections could impact South Korea's policy-and-legislation in the area of politics, particularly regarding general-news topics like renewable energy, workers' rights, relations with neighboring countries, and international alliances.
