6.06.2025

"South Korea's Election Campaigns Heat Up Ahead of Vote"

This is a photo collection curated by AP photo editors

The 2025 presidential election campaign in South Korea has been highlighted by a series of events featuring the two main candidates: Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party and Kim Moon Soo of the People Power Party. The campaign, which is intensifying as the June 3 election date approaches, has been marked by public engagements, debates, and voter outreach efforts.

On May 19, 2025, Lee Jae-myung was captured in a reflective moment during his campaign in Seoul, as he addressed supporters with a transparent determination. His engagements have frequently demonstrated his commitment to connecting with the electorate in meaningful ways. Just days earlier, on May 12, he arrived at another campaign event in the same bustling city, highlighting his active presence in the lead-up to the elections, with photojournalist Lee Jin-man documenting his movements for the Associated Press.

Meanwhile, Kim Moon Soo has also been active, as seen on May 20, 2025, when he interacted with constituents in Seoul. His campaign was visually emphasized by moments where he was greeted warmly by citizens, showcasing his approachability and dedication to engaging with voters. Photographs taken by Ahn Young-joon capture these crucial moments, emphasizing the tactile connection between Kim and the electorate.

On the same day, Kim was involved in several engagements, where he reacted to the crowd's support and bowed in acknowledgment of their encouragement. These moments were captured through various photographs, illustrating his responsive demeanor throughout the campaign. Additionally, banners held by supporters added a vibrant backdrop to his public appearances, symbolizing the enthusiasm surrounding his candidacy.

Lee Jae-myung had his own fervent supporters showing their commitment at an event in Goyang, South Korea, on May 20, 2025. He was depicted waving to the crowd, a gesture that resonated with his base, as they expressed their support through enthusiastic applause and cheers. This particular day was pivotal, as candidates strive to make a memorable impression on undecided voters.

In a critical component of the election cycle, a presidential debate was held on May 18, 2025, featuring both Lee and Kim. This debate was crucial for their campaigns, acting as a platform to articulate their visions for South Korea's future. As documented, a TV screen at the Seoul Railway Station prominently displayed both candidates as they prepared to challenge each other's policies and promises, reflecting the competitive nature of the election.

The political landscape was further enriched by the presence of other candidates such as Kwon Young-guk of the Democratic Labor Party and Lee Jun-seok of the New Reform Party, who also participated in the televised debate, showcasing a diverse array of political perspectives. The four candidates posed for a photograph prior to the debate, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of South Korea’s electoral process and the tough competition each candidate faces in the race for the presidency.

Amidst these campaign activities, election management committees were busy, as seen on May 15, 2025, when officials put up presidential election posters across Seoul. This organization and visibility are integral to ensuring that voters are informed about their choices, reflecting the meticulous preparations that accompany any democratic process.

Overall, the 2025 South Korean presidential election campaign is characterized by a dynamic interaction between candidates and the electorate, intense public engagements, and crucial debates that set the tone for the electoral race ahead. As the election date draws nearer, both Lee Jae-myung and Kim Moon Soo continue to ramp up their campaign efforts, seeking to secure the trust and votes of the South Korean populace.