Intense Competition Among Broadcasters for the 21st Presidential Election Vote Count Broadcast

The vote count broadcast for the 21st presidential election is set to heat up the night of June 3, 2025. As candidates engage in fierce competition, broadcasters are mobilizing their technical prowess and creative planning for what has been dubbed the 'vote count war.' On this night, viewers can expect a special broadcast filled with advanced technology and production, stepping away from typical entertainment and drama.
KBS is focusing on an analytical approach under the title 'A Choice That Changes My Life.' They are utilizing generative AI, a media wall called 'K-Wall,' and an immersive media sphere known as 'K-Sphere' to deliver information while enhancing visual engagement. Their exit poll and election prediction system, 'Decision K+,' aims to maintain its record of 100% accuracy, promising quick and reliable results.
The broadcast will feature key political figures from conservative, progressive, and reformist camps engaging in in-depth analysis and discussions. Additionally, KBS has set up a 'K-Cube' in Gwanghwamun, a historical site symbolizing democracy, to live stream the vote count against a backdrop of 600 years of history. This combination of historical significance, technology, and content aims to create a unique viewing experience.
MBC, under the slogan 'Again, Democracy,' is presenting the largest set in broadcasting history, featuring a six-sided LED display, wire cams, drone coverage, and ultra-high-definition computer graphics to maximize viewer immersion. They have prepared over 40 broadcast formats, including dynamic segments like running commentary from local landmarks, food content showcasing national dishes, and rock climbing.
The political debate segment will include prominent figures such as author Yoo Si-min and former chief editor Jung Kyu-jae, alongside lawmakers Jo Kyung-tae and Park Joo-min, who will engage in sharp exchanges of progressive and conservative viewpoints. MBC's proprietary election prediction program, 'Hit 2025,' will be revealed at 8 PM, adding to the excitement as viewers anticipate its accuracy.
SBS is introducing a real-time talk show based on XR (extended reality) technology, featuring representatives from the MZ generation in segments like 'Sseol President' and 'Election Direct Talk.' They will also showcase blockbuster-level graphic content inspired by the hit series 'Squid Game' in a segment titled 'Showdown 2025: The Competitors.' Their upgraded 'Byphone' system will provide real-time updates on candidate standings, blending information with entertainment.
Channel A is focusing on citizen participation with their 'My Choice 2025' broadcast, offering an offline experience where viewers can watch the vote count live on a curved LED screen in Gwanghwamun Square, while their prediction system 'Alpha A' analyzes the results. MBN, under the slogan 'A Better Tomorrow,' is integrating a data room, AI big data analysis, and content based on five key themes to explore policy directions and social integration messages.
OTT platforms are also gearing up to deliver live coverage of the vote count. Wavve will operate a special section to provide live and VOD services for all vote count broadcasts, enhancing accessibility and convenience for voters.
As the competition heats up, the question remains: who will emerge victorious in this battle of broadcasts? In previous elections, KBS led with an average viewership of 8.25% in 2022, while MBC topped the ratings in 2024 with 11.7%. With the same data and timing, the outcome will depend solely on the production quality of each broadcaster. The stakes are high as this vote count broadcast becomes a matter of pride among networks.