Election Commission Weighed Withholding Minutes Amid Probe, Documents Show

South Korea's National Election Commission faces scrutiny over its handling of a ballot shortage, with internal documents suggesting attempts to obstruct a parliamentary inquiry. The commission, currently undergoing a National Assembly probe, reportedly considered tactics to avoid submitting full meeting minutes.

One internal document outlined a phased approach to responding to the inquiry, acknowledging that standard reasons for withholding information, such as personal data protection or free discussion, might not apply to meeting minutes. The proposed strategy involved redacting participants' names and offering limited, non-public access before any full submission.

Another document addressed the mounting pressure for the resignation of acting chairman Wi Chul-hwan. It explored arguments to counter the calls for his departure, including emphasizing the reduced accountability of a non-standing chairman. The commission's internal deliberations raise questions about its genuine commitment to transparency and reform following the ballot shortage crisis.