44 million voters in South Korea are heading to the polls to elect a new 300-member parliament. Many voters, up to 30% to 40%, are politically neutral and could play a crucial role in determining the election results. Domestic concerns, such as the prices of agricultural products, striking doctors, and alleged sexist comments made by politicians, are driving the focus of voters in this election. These issues are more salient for voters compared to traditional topics like North Korean nuclear threats and U.S. security commitment to South Korea.
The conservative-liberal divide in South Korea has led to extreme polarization among voters, but there is also a growing number of moderates who are fed up with partisan strife and are prioritizing issues that directly impact them such as prices, jobs, and taxes. Experts estimate that about 30% of South Koreans identify as conservatives, another 30% as liberals, and the remaining 40% as moderates. The fate of the election is likely to be determined by these moderates who are focusing on livelihood issues and making decisions based on those concerns.
The ruling party, led by conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, faces challenges related to rising food prices, particularly the cost of green onions. Yoon faced criticism after he made comments about the price of green onions during a visit to a grocery mall, underestimating the actual cost. The main opposition party seized on this issue, using it as a rallying point in their campaigns. In addition to green onions, the prices of other agricultural products have also seen significant increases, leading some voters to question the government’s handling of the economy.
Another issue that is impacting the ruling party is the weekslong strikes by thousands of doctors protesting against Yoon’s plan to increase the yearly medical school admission cap. The strikes have disrupted medical services and caused inconveniences for patients. While Yoon initially received a boost in approval ratings for his plan, there are now growing calls for compromise and resolution to the strike. The toxic rhetoric and offensive language used by rival parties is also a point of contention in the election, with personal attacks and insults being exchanged between party leaders.
The election race in South Korea is further complicated by the involvement of former liberal justice minister Cho Kuk, whose new party is expected to win several seats in the parliament. Cho, once a rising political star, faced scandals that damaged his reputation and divided public opinion. The exchange of accusations and insults between political figures further intensifies the contentious atmosphere surrounding the election. Despite the outcome of the election, experts believe that Yoon’s major foreign policy agendas, including security cooperation with the U.S. and Japan, and a tough stance on North Korea, are likely to remain unchanged. The role of politically neutral voters in deciding the election results remains a key factor to watch.
