South Korea Holds High-Stakes Election Following Coup and Impeachment

South Korea is holding a critical presidential election following the impeachment of former right-wing president Yoon Suk Yeol, who was removed from office after his attempted coup involving martial law in December 2024. The main contenders are Lee Jae-myung of the centre-left Democratic Party, who advocates for national unity and a balanced foreign policy between the US and China, and Kim Moon-soo of the conservative People Power Party, a Yoon loyalist. The election reflects a deep political polarization, with Lee emphasizing democracy and economic revival, while Kim warns against potential abuses of power by Lee's party. Amid this tense atmosphere, Christian leaders across South Korea urge political neutrality and focus on repentance, unity, and moral renewal, discouraging partisan endorsements by the church. Meanwhile, pro-Yoon rallies adopting American MAGA symbolism reveal the growing influence of far-right and nationalist sentiments linked to Yoon’s movement. Voters face a pivotal choice that will shape South Korea's democratic future and its role in global geopolitics, with the winner assuming office immediately due to the abrupt end of Yoon’s presidency.