Ballot paper shortages disrupt Seoul voting; People Power Party protests

Ballot paper shortages led to confusion and delays at several polling stations in Seoul on June 3, the day of the local elections. The issue prompted strong reactions from political parties, particularly the People Power Party.

“

The National Election Commission must guarantee that citizens who are waiting can vote, even after 6 p.m.

The People Power Party voiced strong criticism, with spokesperson Song Eon-seok suggesting the shortages might be linked to high voter turnout and the Democratic Party's potential fear of losing. He urged the National Election Commission (NEC) to ensure all citizens could vote, even beyond the official closing time, and demanded an investigation into the matter. Other party officials echoed these concerns, calling the situation a "disgraceful level" and a "breach of duty."

“

This is not just a simple failure of election management, but a disgraceful level of abandonment of election management duties.

In response, the NEC acknowledged the ballot paper shortages in some Seoul polling stations, citing higher-than-anticipated voter turnout compared to previous elections. The commission assured voters that those waiting would be allowed to cast their ballots even after the official closing time, aiming to quell concerns about disenfranchisement. The Democratic Party also expressed regret over the situation, urging voters to wait patiently and emphasizing the need for the NEC to ensure everyone could vote.

“

There is no need to misunderstand that voting is impossible today due to a shortage of ballots.