Lee Jae Myung Pledges Cooperation After South Korean Local Polls, Seeks National Unity

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Thursday said he would “humbly” accept the public sentiment reflected in the results of the recent local elections and pledged to work closely with newly elected local governments irrespective of their political affiliations. Speaking during a meeting with senior aides at Cheong Wa Dae, Lee emphasized the importance of cooperation and accountability following the conclusion of local elections and parliamentary by-elections held across the country.

The elections delivered a mixed outcome for the ruling Democratic Party (DP), which secured a majority of the seats contested nationwide. However, the party failed to win the strategically important Seoul mayoral race, while making gains elsewhere by capturing the Busan mayoralty, a region traditionally regarded as a conservative stronghold. The results were widely viewed as an indication of shifting political dynamics and regional voter preferences.

Addressing the post-election political landscape, Lee stressed that both ruling and opposition parties share a common responsibility toward the nation. He said political rivals may compete vigorously during elections, but they must work together afterward to safeguard citizens’ welfare and ensure a better future for the country. The president called for bipartisan cooperation to improve livelihoods, promote balanced regional development and strengthen national unity in the aftermath of the polls.

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Lee also commented on a controversy that emerged during voting in Seoul, where more than a dozen polling stations reportedly experienced shortages of ballot papers. Describing the situation as deeply regrettable, he said election administration in a democratic republic must be conducted with the highest level of diligence. The president urged relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident, determine its exact causes and establish accountability if any lapses are found.

The ballot shortage temporarily disrupted voting and triggered protests at a polling station in Seoul’s Jamsil district. Demonstrators blocked access to election officials and raised allegations of electoral irregularities, while the main opposition People Power Party demanded an immediate suspension of voting and a fresh poll. However, the National Election Commission (NEC) rejected those demands, maintaining that the incident did not meet the legal requirements for a re-election or postponement.

Cheong Wa Dae initially adopted a cautious approach to the controversy, noting that the NEC is an independent constitutional body responsible for election management and not part of the executive branch. Nevertheless, Lee’s remarks signaled growing concern over the incident and underscored the administration’s commitment to transparency and public trust. As political parties assess the election results, attention is expected to remain focused on governance, electoral integrity and cooperation between central and local authorities.

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