South Korea’s Opposition Wins Parliamentary Election

In the parliamentary election in South Korea, the opposition has secured a comfortable majority. Prime Minister Han of the ruling conservatives reportedly offered his resignation after the defeat.

In South Korea, the social-liberal opposition has scored a clear victory in the parliamentary election. The Democratic Party (DP) led by opposition leader Lee Jae Myung was able to maintain its position as the largest individual party in the National Assembly, as reported by South Korean broadcasters.

This victory dealt a heavy blow to President Yoon Suk Yeol. With the success of the opposition, the conservative head of state now faces the prospect of being largely incapacitated in domestic affairs during the remaining three years of his term.

DP expected to have 160 out of 300 seats

After counting almost all votes, the DP was reportedly expected to hold more than 170 out of 300 seats in the National Assembly. The opposition also includes the new party “Rebuilding Korea” led by former Justice Minister Cho Kuk, which was expected to win between twelve and 14 seats. Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP), on the other hand, is likely to have at most 100 representatives in the future. In addition to direct mandates, 46 seats are allocated based on the proportional share of votes for list candidates in the election that takes place every four years.

This sets the stage for a continuation of challenging political power dynamics in the fourth-largest economy in Asia. Yoon’s party had hoped for a shift in power in its favor to facilitate the passage of legislative proposals.

Prime Minister and Advisors reportedly offer resignation

South Korean media reported that Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and key advisors to Yoon offered their resignations after the defeat was announced.

In a press conference, the chairman of the PPP, Han Dong-hoon, also stated that he would resign and take responsibility for the election outcome.

Next presidential election planned for 2027

The election was seen as an important interim test for the government. The next presidential election is scheduled for 2027. Yoon, who narrowly won the election two years ago against DP leader Lee, will not be able to run for re-election as it is not allowed under the constitution.

Yoon has been suffering from low approval ratings for months. Central promises of his presidential campaign, such as tax cuts or the regulation of businesses, have so far not been fulfilled. However, the opposition is unlikely to achieve a two-thirds majority in parliament, which would allow them to bypass the president’s veto and enact constitutional amendments.

During the campaign, the DP and other parties accused the government of economic incompetence, citing rising prices of food and other goods. The PPP, on the other hand, urged voters to support the government’s reform policies and keep the opposition in check with their votes.

According to preliminary data from the state election commission, voter turnout was at 67 percent, marking the highest participation rate in parliamentary elections in 32 years.