The properties of light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) based on organic layers containing mobile ions, so‐called light‐emitting electrochemical cells (LECs), are reviewed. These devices have some unique properties: their current–voltage characteristics are antisymmetric with respect to the origin and they emit light under both forward and reverse bias. The physical processes involved in the emission from LECs are discussed in terms of a thermodynamic model. Recent work on blends of luminescent and ion‐conducting polymers is summarized. In addition, the properties of novel single‐component LECs and polyelectrolyte‐based devices are presented. The results show that LECs with performances superior to that of conventional LED devices can be fabricated, but questions concerning the transient behavior and degradation mechanisms persist. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.