Vote counting is underway after Zimbabwe's first election since last year's ousting of the country's long-serving president Robert Mugabe.
Many were hoping the vote would be free and fair... and help put the country back on the diplomatic map and revive its ailing economy.
Our Oh Soo-young has more.
The polls are closed and counting has begun after Zimbabwe's election on Monday,... where millions voted in hopes of a brighter future.
Electoral authorities say that turnout was high -- over 70 percent -- with more than five million having registered to cast their votes.
This is the first election in Zimbabwe without the country's long-serving leader Robert Mugabe on the ballot,... after a military takeover ended his 37 year rule last year.
Also, it has been seen as a relatively clean and peaceful election, given Zimbabwe's past of political violence and repression.
International observers have noted the absence of violence on election day, although some cited delays and inefficiency at some polling stations.
Incumbent president and Mugabe's fired Deputy, Emmerson Mnangagwa has been considered the frontrunner of the race with the backing of the ruling Zanu-PF party,... although the 75-year old has been accused of political repression and violence in the past.
His main challenger is Nelson Chamisa, the 40 year-old leader of the opposition, the Movement for Democratic Change.
Amid bitter rivalry,... both candidates have promised to revive the ailing economy, which is suffering from hyperinflation, soaring unemployment and debt.
Chamisa has gone as far as pledging to hold the Olympics and the World Cup in his country.
So who will be the one to deliver their promise of building a new Zimbabwe -- the final results are expected to be announced within the next five days.
Oh Soo-young, Arirang News.