Why is the presidential election on June 3?

President Yoon Suk-yeol was legally removed from office on April 4, 2025, following a ruling by the Constitutional Court. Because he was dismissed on that date, the Constitution and relevant laws require that a presidential election be held within 60 days. This is set out in Article 68, Paragraph 2 of the Constitution and Article 38 of the Public Official Election Act.

Why is the presidential election day a temporary public holiday?

An election day designated as a temporary public holiday is not simply a day off. It is a day for people to participate directly and shape the future. Everything from how we live, to how laws and policies change, to decisions on the economy, jobs, welfare, and refugee policy is influenced by the president. This election carries great meaning for everyone living in Korea, including refugees who are hoping for a better life.

Do foreigners have the right to vote?

Only Korean nationals may vote in presidential elections and National Assembly elections; foreigners cannot participate. However, in local elections (elections for heads of local governments and local council members), foreigners who meet certain requirements do have the right to vote.

Eligibility requirements for foreign voters in local elections: A foreigner aged 18 or older who, as of the voter registration base date, has held permanent residency status (F-5 visa) for at least three years and is registered in the foreign resident register of the relevant local government.

Can people take the temporary public holiday off work?

The reason the presidential election day is designated as a temporary public holiday is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to vote without being restricted by work schedules. This day is not simply personal time off; it is a day to fulfil a civic responsibility.

A temporary public holiday carries the same legal force as a regular statutory public holiday. Businesses, schools, and public institutions close, and workers at workplaces with five or more employees are entitled to paid time off. However, workplaces with fewer than five employees may operate as on a normal working day, and in that case workers who work on election day are not entitled to additional holiday pay. Hospitals, transport services, and financial services may operate as usual, so it is worth checking before you visit.

Must employers give paid holiday on election day even to foreign workers who cannot vote?

Under the Public Official Election Act and the Labor Standards Act, when an election day is designated as a public holiday, it applies as a paid holiday to all workers regardless of nationality or whether they have the right to vote. Even without the right to vote, a worker is legally recognised as a “worker” and is protected by law. Temporary public holidays must therefore be treated as paid holidays, and failing to do so constitutes a violation of labor law.

For the latest information on holiday pay, paid leave entitlements, or matters related to your residency status, please check with the Immigration Contact Center (1345) or your local Korea Immigration Service office.