Future Voters: Children Experience Democracy at South Korean Polls

Young South Koreans experienced democracy firsthand as they accompanied their parents to polling stations for the 9th National Simultaneous Local Elections on June 3. The elections, held to select local government leaders for the next four years, saw long queues of voters at numerous polling stations across the country.

Many parents brought their children along, allowing them to witness the civic process. Inside the polling stations, children observed their parents carefully considering candidates before casting their votes. In some instances, parents allowed their children to join them inside the voting booths, providing a tangible experience of democratic participation.

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I've never been to a place like this before.

Seven-year-old Kim Myung-jin, visiting a polling station in Seoul's Seocho District with his father, expressed curiosity about the process. His younger brother, five-year-old Ho-jin, eagerly participated by placing a ballot into the box alongside their father. Election officials at the polling station in Bangbae-bon-dong confirmed that children up to elementary school age were permitted to enter the voting booths with their parents.

The images captured at various polling stations across Seoul highlight these moments, showcasing the future generation engaging with the electoral process. The participation of children alongside their parents underscores the importance of early civic education and the intergenerational transfer of democratic values.

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I want to try too.