Early voting for local elections begins tomorrow in South Korea

South Korea is preparing for early voting for the 9th National Simultaneous Local Elections and National Assembly by-elections, scheduled for May 29-30. Citizens will have the opportunity to cast their ballots at any of the 3,571 polling stations across the country between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. Unlike the main election day on June 3, where voters must go to their designated polling station based on their address, early voting allows for greater flexibility.

To participate in early voting, citizens must bring a valid form of identification, including mobile identification. The process differs slightly depending on whether the voter is voting within their registered district (Gwan-nae) or outside it (Gwan-oe). Gwan-nae voters receive their ballots and deposit them directly into the ballot box after marking them. Gwan-oe voters, however, receive their ballots along with a return envelope. They must mark their ballots, seal them in the envelope, and then place the sealed envelope into the ballot box.

Typically, voters will receive up to seven ballots for various positions, including provincial governor, superintendent of education, mayor/county chief, and local council members. In regions like Sejong and Jeju, which do not have mayoral or county chief elections, voters will receive four ballots. For areas holding National Assembly by-elections, voters may receive an additional ballot, bringing the total to a maximum of eight.

Candidates are still in the process of unifying their campaigns in various regions. If a candidate unifies by May 28, their withdrawal will be indicated on the early voting ballots. Eligible voters must be 18 years or older, born on or before June 4, 2008. Notably, overseas voting is not available for local elections, and expatriates cannot participate. However, foreigners who have resided in South Korea for over three years and meet certain criteria are eligible to vote in local elections.