Young voters are turning away from the candidates in the recent elections, disappointed by their neglect of pressing youth concerns.
Disenchanted Youth: South Korea's Young Voters Reject Presidential Candidates
Disenchanted Youth: South Korea's Young Voters Reject Presidential Candidates
South Korean millennials express frustration over electoral options amid key social issues.
In the wake of President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief imposition of martial law in December, a wave of young protestors emerged, demanding change in South Korea's political landscape. Months of demonstrations, punctuated by powerful protest music and vibrant displays of solidarity, culminated in the president's impeachment. These young activists believed their dedication had borne fruit, but as election day loomed, many felt let down by the candidates vying for their support.
Young protestor An Ye-young, 20, whose involvement in the December demonstrations marked her first experience in activism, voiced her disappointment after casting her vote early: “My one thought on this election is disgust,” she lamented. The sentiment echoed widely among her peers, who viewed the election as a superficial spectacle with little substance. “It’s a feast with nothing to eat,” she added, reflecting the disillusionment plaguing a generation eager for meaningful change.
The candidates appearing on the ballot have largely overlooked critical issues that resonate with young voters, including youth unemployment, pension reform, and gender equality challenges. Currently, South Korea's job market poses significant hurdles for its youth, as the unemployment rate among those aged 15 to 29 has soared to a four-year record high of 6.8% in the first quarter of the year.
For young South Koreans, the absence of compelling candidates who address these essential concerns makes the current electoral climate frustrating and disheartening. As they cast their ballots, it remains unclear whether the election will change the trajectory of the challenges they face or simply perpetuate a cycle of disappointment.
Young protestor An Ye-young, 20, whose involvement in the December demonstrations marked her first experience in activism, voiced her disappointment after casting her vote early: “My one thought on this election is disgust,” she lamented. The sentiment echoed widely among her peers, who viewed the election as a superficial spectacle with little substance. “It’s a feast with nothing to eat,” she added, reflecting the disillusionment plaguing a generation eager for meaningful change.
The candidates appearing on the ballot have largely overlooked critical issues that resonate with young voters, including youth unemployment, pension reform, and gender equality challenges. Currently, South Korea's job market poses significant hurdles for its youth, as the unemployment rate among those aged 15 to 29 has soared to a four-year record high of 6.8% in the first quarter of the year.
For young South Koreans, the absence of compelling candidates who address these essential concerns makes the current electoral climate frustrating and disheartening. As they cast their ballots, it remains unclear whether the election will change the trajectory of the challenges they face or simply perpetuate a cycle of disappointment.
