On the first day of early voting for the 21st presidential election on the 29th, the final voter turnout recorded 19.58%, breaking the previous record. The Democratic Party of Korea and People Power Party offered divergent assessments.
The Democratic Party of Korea interpreted it as a reflection of the public’s desire to judge the forces of rebellion. Cho Seung-rae, chief spokesperson of the campaign committee, noted in a written briefing, "The public's aspiration for the end of rebellion and national unity is being gathered through voting," adding, "The busy weekday could not hinder the fervent voting enthusiasm of the public."
Chief spokesperson Cho stated, "Active participation in voting is necessary to judge the forces of rebellion and restore Korea and the lives of the people they have disrupted," urging, "Let’s gather more strength for tomorrow's early voting and the main vote on the 3rd of next month."
Lee Jae-myung, a presidential candidate, posted on his Facebook, noting, "I can feel the earnestness of each and every citizen who has been eagerly waiting to vote."
The People Power Party encouraged early voting, noting that higher turnout could boost support for candidate Kim Moon-soo. The party observed that as more centrist voters participate, candidate Kim would benefit.
Lee Jung-hyun, co-chairperson of the campaign committee, evaluated the high early voter turnout as "not bad" on YTN radio. He stated, "High turnout shows the expressed will to elect a proper president, one who meets the general public’s standard," and asserted, "High turnout is advantageous to candidate Kim."
However, a cautious interpretation was also noted due to the low turnout in Yeongnam, where conservative support is strong. Daegu and Gyeongbuk recorded 13.42% and 16.92%, respectively. Gyeongnam (17.18%), Busan (17.21%), and Ulsan (17.86%) also remained in the 10% range.
Jang Dong-hyuk, the campaign situation director, stated at a briefing held at the central party headquarters, "TK has always had higher main voting rates compared to other regions," expressing belief that in the main vote, turnout will be higher than the national average and there will be overwhelming support for the People Power Party."
Within the party, there were opinions reflecting concerns over the Election Commission’s mismanagement of early voting. A campaign official predicted, "Many supporters express distrust in early voting," and speculated, "Due to many controversies surrounding today's early voting, tomorrow's turnout might be lower."