Millions of South Koreans voted in a snap presidential election. The election was triggered by the ouster of the previous president. Pre-election surveys suggested a win for Lee Jae-myung.
The new president will immediately be sworn in for a five-year term. Major challenges include a slowing economy. Also, President Trump's policies and North Korea's nuclear threats.
Voting began at 6 am (GMT +0900 hrs) at 14,295 polling stations. More than 15 million people had already voted early. The winner could emerge as early as midnight.
Lee has promised to revitalise the economy and reduce inequality. Kim warned that a Lee win would allow him to wield excessive power. Relations with North Korea remain strained since 2019.