South Korea enters the final stretch of local elections with 100 days of campaigning

South Korea is at a critical juncture as preparations for the upcoming local elections accelerate. With February 22 marking the start of a 100-day countdown, the country is gearing up for elections that will determine leadership in provinces, cities, and local governments, as well as in educational oversight agencies. This electoral day represents the first major political test for President Lee Jae-myung’s administration, with particular focus on the performance of the ruling Democratic Party.

Parties intensify mobilization efforts to win voter support

Political forces are ramping up their strategies to secure voter backing during this decisive moment for the national electoral landscape. According to Jin10 reports, parties are deploying unprecedented efforts to gain an advantageous position in the elections. The outcome of these municipal elections could shape the country’s political direction in the coming years, prompting each political force to concentrate its resources on territorial campaigning.

Electoral schedule and candidate requirements for local elections

The municipal elections, held every four years, will determine new leaders for provincial governments, special cities, metropolitan cities, and municipalities, as well as educational supervisors and local councilors across various jurisdictions. The elections are scheduled for June 3, 2026, coinciding with by-elections to renew members of the National Assembly.

Public officials wishing to run must meet a critical deadline: they must submit their resignations before March 5. National assembly members seeking to change their candidacy for these municipal elections have until May 4 to formally resign. These deadlines establish a strict timetable that defines the timeline for prospective candidates.

A decisive verdict for political continuity

The political significance of these municipal elections extends beyond the local level. They are seen as a referendum on Lee Jae-myung’s administration, offering voters the chance to express their opinions on policies implemented so far. The performance of the Democratic Party will be closely watched, setting a precedent for future national electoral competitions.