The special prosecutor's team investigating the ballot shortage during the 9th nationwide local elections began its first summons just one day after its launch. Personnel were also deployed to the Olympic Park in Songpa, Seoul, to expedite the investigation.
On the afternoon of September 8, the special prosecutor's team summoned Kim Soon-hwan, the secretary-general of the People's Livelihood Countermeasures Committee, for questioning at their office in Seocho, Seoul.
The committee had reported to the police that Noh Tae-ak, the former chairman of the National Election Commission, and other officials were suspected of abuse of power, neglect of duty, embezzlement, and breach of trust related to the ballot shortage that occurred during the June 3 local elections.
Upon arriving for questioning, Kim stated, "It is absurd that the Election Commission delivered ballots via a courier service," adding, "There were discrepancies in the counting process, yet they failed to report it, which raised reasonable suspicions leading to the complaint."
He further remarked, "Every vote is precious, but the Election Commission seemed to believe it did not affect the outcome. It raises questions about how such individuals have managed the commission until now."
The case has been transferred from the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency to a joint investigation team. After conducting preliminary investigations, the special prosecutor's team has taken over the case. They are expected to confirm the circumstances surrounding the complaint and the ballot shortage.
On the same day, the special prosecutor's team sent four personnel to the Olympic Park site, including two special investigators and two dispatched police officers. However, the team did not disclose the specific activities they conducted at the location.
The special prosecutor's team stated, "Maintaining security for each investigation team is crucial, making it difficult to announce planned investigative activities in advance. We will provide updates as necessary based on the progress of the investigation." They also noted that a public relations officer has not yet been appointed, leading to confusion in their initial media responses.
The investigation targets include 12 allegations: ballot shortages, reduction of minimum printing quantities for ballots, false input of voter numbers, overseas trips for personal gain, and preferential treatment in contracts. Special prosecutors Park Hyuk, Kim Eun-jung, Kim Sang-cheon, Kwon Geun-hwan, and Kim Jin-woo will be responsible for investigating these allegations.
During the inauguration ceremony the previous day, the special prosecutor stated, "We have a significant responsibility to protect the constitutional right to vote and to restore the fairness and credibility of elections. We will conduct a swift and thorough investigation."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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