South Korea will hold its 21st presidential election on June 3, the government said on April 8, setting the stage for a fast-moving campaign as major candidates prepare to enter the race.
Han Duck-soo, who is serving as acting president, announced the decision during a Cabinet meeting in Seoul. He said the date was chosen in coordination with the National Election Commission and other relevant agencies to ensure smooth election management.
“Taking into account the legal requirements and the preparation time needed by political parties, the government has designated June 3 as the date of the 21st presidential election,” Han said.
He added that the government would designate election day as a temporary public holiday to allow citizens to vote without inconvenience.
With the date confirmed, presidential hopefuls from both camps are moving quickly to launch their campaigns.
Lee Jae-myung, leader of the opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), is expected to step down from his post on April 9 to launch his presidential bid. An official from the party said Lee will chair his final Supreme Council meeting in the morning before resigning. His official campaign announcement is expected next week.
“Given the shortened campaign period, we expect his candidacy to be declared by next week at the latest,” the official said, adding that multiple venues were under consideration for the announcement.
Meanwhile, Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) became the first major contender to formally enter the race, declaring his candidacy earlier on April 8. It marks his fourth presidential bid.
Ahn previously withdrew from the 2012 race to back then-opposition candidate Moon Jae-in. He later ran as the People’s Party nominee in 2017, placing third with 21.41% of the vote, and again in 2022 before merging campaigns with eventual winner Yoon Suk-yeol.
At a campaign launch event in central Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square, Ahn said, “This is a time for generational change—to revive the economy, restore everyday life, and correct the mistakes of the past.” He added, “I am the only candidate who can defeat Lee Jae-myung.”
Labor Minister Kim Moon-soo also signaled his entry into the race. Speaking to reporters after the Cabinet meeting, Kim said he plans to formally declare his candidacy on April 9. “It’s time to unite our strength for the progress of the Republic of Korea,” he said.
Kim is reported to have resigned from his ministerial post following the meeting. Political observers say he is likely to apply for rejoining the ruling PPP, as he is not currently affiliated with any party.
