Ballot shortages hit 91 polling stations in South Korean local elections; investigation launched

A significant ballot shortage affected 91 polling stations across South Korea during the June 3 local elections, with 26 of these locations forced to temporarily halt voting. The National Election Commission (NEC) confirmed the extent of the issue, which has prompted the formation of a special committee to investigate the circumstances.

The NEC reported that additional ballots were sent to 140 polling stations anticipating a shortage. However, only 91 of these stations ultimately used the supplementary ballots. Seoul reported the highest number of affected stations with 42, followed by Gyeonggi Province with 23. Other regions, including Busan, Daegu, Incheon, Ulsan, Chungbuk, Jeonbuk, Jeonnam, and Gyeongnam, also experienced shortages.

The temporary suspension of voting occurred in 26 stations, primarily in Seoul, where 15 were in Songpa District alone. Other affected areas included Busan, Daegu, Incheon, and Gyeonggi Province. The NEC's decision to launch a "Truth Investigation Committee" signals the seriousness with which the commission is treating the incident.

This committee, comprising six external members recommended by civic groups, legal professionals, media, and academia, will operate from June 10 to 19. It will examine the entire process, from ballot printing and distribution to supply management, and assess the appropriateness of the initial responses and reporting procedures at the affected polling stations. Lawyer Cho Hyun-wook will chair the committee.