Celebrities encourage participation through 'voting shots'

A number of celebrities shared “voting shots” online to encourage people to cast their votes in the general election, Wednesday.

They took photos outside the polling stations, as it is illegal to do so inside them.

Seolhyun, a member of popular girl group AOA and an honorary ambassador for the election, posted a photo with a message on her social media accounts to say, “Today is April 13. I believe all of those who did not vote during the early voting period (April 8-9) will go to polling stations today!” She cast her ballot on April 8 as she could not go the polling station.

Actor Kim Ki-bang encouraged voters as well. “Today is not a holiday to rest at home, but a day to voice your opinion,” he wrote. “It is not at all difficult. Just bring your resident registration card or driver’s license to your designated polling station. Officials there will help you through the rest of the process. Your votes matter. Let’s go!”

Girl group KARA member Young-ji posted a photo holding a sketchbook with messages to her fans saying, “To university freshmen: I know all of you first-time voters feel shy and nervous. But what awaits us behind that feeling is the bright future of our country! I support the choices you 20-year-olds make today!”

TV personality Kim Na-young posted a photo of herself in front of a polling station in Hannam, central Seoul, saying, “Don’t forget to vote today. I voted just now and I’m heading to the gym for a workout. So fresh!”

Actress Sulli also posted a photo showing a voting stamp on the back of her hand, along with the message: “I completed exercising my right!”

Rock band Rose Motel said they would provide free tickets for their concert to three people among those who post their voting photos on the group’s official website.

Many restaurants, cafes and stores joined the effort to boost voter turnout by offering discounts to customers who showed their voting photos.

Beauty store chain LOHB’s offered a 2,000 won ($1.75) discount to customers who spent more than 20,000 won when they show their voting shots. Shoe store Lesmore also offered a 10 percent discount, and Ticket Monster (TMON), a social commerce website, gave a cash payback worth 2,800 won to those who bought an Americano coffee at Ediya Coffee.