South Korea's ruling and opposition parties launched a Buddhist-temple outreach campaign on Sunday to court voters ahead of local elections [1].
These visits occur during a critical window for candidate visibility, as both parties seek to secure a broad base of support from the Buddhist community to influence the outcome of the upcoming polls.
The outreach coincides with Buddha’s Birthday, leading leaders from the Democratic Party and the People Power Party to visit religious sites in Seoul and South Jeolla Province [1]. Democratic Party leaders including 정청래, 한병도, 정원오, and 이광재 focused their efforts in South Jeolla, visiting locations such as Songgwangsa Temple in Suncheon, as well as Gwangyang, Damyang, and Hampyeong [1].
People Power Party leader 장동혁 and other party officials also engaged in the campaign, visiting Jogyesa Temple in Seoul, the Children's Grand Park in Gwangjin-gu, and Hanam [1]. The coordinated effort reflects a strategic push to align party platforms with the values of Buddhist constituents, a demographic that can sway tight regional races.
With only 10 days remaining until the June 3 local elections [1], the parties are utilizing these cultural and religious milestones to mobilize their bases. The Democratic Party's focus on South Jeolla is particularly significant as the region is considered a stronghold for the party [1].
Representatives from both sides used the visits to support their respective candidates and emphasize their commitment to the community. The "불심 공략" or Buddhist-heart strategy is a common tactic in South Korean politics to demonstrate inclusivity and respect for traditional spiritual leadership [1].
“Both ruling and opposition parties launched a '불심 공략' (Buddhist‑temple outreach) campaign.”
The strategic focus on Buddhist temples during Buddha's Birthday illustrates the importance of religious and cultural alignment in South Korean local elections. By engaging in high-visibility outreach just 10 days before the vote, parties are attempting to maximize voter turnout and consolidate support in key provinces, particularly in the competitive regional landscapes of South Jeolla and Seoul.
