Exit polls from South Korea’s 21st presidential election indicate that Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung has secured a significant lead over rival Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party.

According to a joint exit poll conducted by three major national broadcasters—KBS, MBC, and SBS—Lee garnered 51.7% of the vote, while Kim received 39.3%. The candidate from the New Reform Party obtained 7.7% of the vote.

Voter turnout was estimated at 79.4%, marking the highest participation rate in nearly three decades, reflecting strong public interest and the high stakes of the election.

Official results are expected in the coming hours, which will confirm whether the exit polls accurately reflect the final outcome. The election is seen as pivotal for the country’s domestic policy direction and its role on the international stage.