S. Korea’s Governing Party Secures Decisive Victory in Nationwide Elections

(MENAFN) South Korea’s ruling Democratic Party has achieved a sweeping electoral victory in local elections and parliamentary by-elections, strengthening its political position following its strong performance in the 2024 legislative vote, according to reports.

The party led by President Lee Jae Myung won 12 of the 16 contested mayoral and gubernatorial positions, including a key win in Busan. The main opposition People Power Party secured four posts, among them the capital Seoul, based on final vote counts.

In the parliamentary by-elections, the ruling party captured nine of the 14 available seats. The opposition won four, while one seat went to an independent candidate. Reports noted that 13 of those seats were previously held by the Democratic Party, which already maintains a majority in the 300-seat National Assembly.

The outcome is expected to further reinforce the government’s authority and support its ability to advance planned reforms.

Voters also elected officials across other administrative levels, including 16 education superintendents, 227 local government leaders, and approximately 4,000 local council members.

The elections took place one year after the current administration assumed office on June 4. According to reports, voter turnout reached its highest level since the introduction of nationwide local elections in 1995.

South Korea’s local elections are held every four years in between National Assembly elections, a system designed to separate the two major electoral cycles.

MENAFN04062026000045017281ID1111209699