Police have intensified their investigation into the ballot shortage that occurred during the June 3 local elections, focusing on officials from the National Election Commission (NEC). Authorities have secured communication records from election workers and are investigating relevant public officials, affected voters, and printing companies to verify the facts surrounding the incident.
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Special Investigation Unit summoned Kim Soon-hwan, Secretary-General of the People's Livelihood Committee, on June 8 as a complainant regarding allegations of dereliction of duty against former NEC Chairman No Tae-ak and others.
In recent weeks, police have been gathering evidence by securing communication records from election workers, interviewing public officials involved in the election, and investigating voters who were unable to cast their ballots due to the shortage, as well as specific printing companies.
The investigation aims to clarify the processes of ballot supply and distribution and the decision-making involved at the NEC. Further witness interviews with election officials are expected to follow.
On June 4, the People's Livelihood Committee filed complaints against No Tae-ak, Secretary-General Heo Cheol-hoon, and Seoul Election Commission Chairman Oh Min-seok for abuse of power, dereliction of duty, embezzlement, and breach of trust.
Kim Soon-hwan stated upon arriving at the police station, "The NEC secured a budget for ballots equivalent to 110% of the number of voters, yet only 50% were actually printed," urging for a thorough investigation.
This investigation is expected to gain momentum following President Lee Jae-myung's directive for a comprehensive inquiry into the ballot shortage issue.
On June 7, President Lee emphasized on social media that citizens' right to vote should never be restricted or violated, as it is a constitutional right. He instructed the establishment of a joint investigation team involving the police and prosecutors to determine accountability and clarify the circumstances of the incident.
The Supreme Prosecutors' Office also announced on the same day that it would swiftly form a joint investigation team to address the issues affecting citizens' voting rights during the June 3 local elections.
A police official stated, "We will promptly conduct necessary investigations, including the complainant's testimony, until the joint investigation team is fully operational."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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