South Korean politics operates as a presidential representative democratic republic with a strong separation of powers among the executive, legislative (National Assembly), and judicial branches. The President is the head of state and head of the executive branch, elected by direct popular vote for a single five-year term. The current political landscape is dominated by two major, deeply opposed forces: the progressive Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), which currently holds the presidency and a majority in the National Assembly, and the conservative People Power Party (PPP).

Recent South Korean history has been marked by significant political turbulence, including mass protests and high-profile impeachments, highlighting deep societal and political polarisation. Key contemporary issues driving this divide include:

• Political Polarization: The country is sharply divided, often along regional, ideological, generational, and gender lines, leading to intense legislative gridlock and public friction.
• Economic Issues: Confronting structural challenges like high household debt, widening economic inequality, and the urgent need for structural economic reforms to maintain industrial competitiveness.
• Foreign Policy: Navigating the complex regional security environment, particularly balancing the crucial security alliance with the United States against its significant economic ties with an increasingly assertive China, all while managing the constant threat and uncertainty posed by North Korea.