Over 500 candidates elected unopposed ahead of South Korea local elections

Saturday 16 May 2026 - 11:30

More than 500 candidates have been elected without opposition ahead of South Korea’s upcoming local elections scheduled for June 3, according to reports from the country’s election authorities.

The National Election Commission announced that 513 candidates secured their positions automatically after running unchallenged in their respective districts. As a result, no voting will take place in 307 electoral constituencies due to a lack of competition or an insufficient number of registered candidates.

Among those elected unopposed are three local government leaders: Kim I-gang, head of Seo District in Gwangju; Kim Byung-nae, head of Nam District in Gwangju; and Lim Byeong-taek, mayor of Siheung City, located south of Seoul. All three are members of the ruling Democratic Party.

Gwangju has traditionally been considered a stronghold of the Democratic Party, while in Siheung, the main opposition People Power Party did not nominate a candidate, reportedly due to a shortage of available contenders.

The remaining uncontested winners include 510 local council members from various regions across the country.

According to the commission, a total of 7,829 candidates registered during the official two-day filing period.

The upcoming elections will determine key leadership positions across 16 metropolitan cities and provinces, as well as education superintendents and 14 vacant seats in the National Assembly.