Heightened Security for Local Elections Amid Fears of 'Election Fraud' Protests

South Korean authorities are bracing for potential disruptions during the upcoming June 3rd local elections, as concerns grow over the activities of "election fraud" proponents. Police and the National Election Commission are strengthening security measures at polling and vote-counting stations amid fears of spontaneous disturbances and illegal actions.

The situation has been amplified by the recent arrival of Professor Moss Tang, a Korean-American academic based in the US known for promoting "election fraud" theories. His presence and alleged engagement in "election fraud" investigations have heightened anxieties about potential physical threats to election infrastructure. Additionally, a popular Korean history instructor has reportedly been inciting supporters to take action if evidence of fraud emerges.

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Election security is a routine measure, but considering the increased possibility of unforeseen situations related to election fraud theories, we will be more thorough in our vigilance.

In response, police announced on June 2nd that approximately 30 officers would be stationed at each national vote-counting center, with local police chiefs overseeing operations. Mobile police units from regional police agencies will also be deployed to support local election security. The election commission has established a "Special Response Team for Establishing Voting Order" to monitor and swiftly address online election interference and the spread of false information.

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If evidence of election fraud is revealed, the vote counting should be suspended.

An official stated that while election security is a routine measure, the increased possibility of "unforeseen situations" related to "election fraud" theories, particularly following Tang's arrival, necessitates more thorough vigilance. The article notes past incidents where individuals claiming to monitor elections have clashed with voters and officials, attempted to block ballot boxes, or even tried to infiltrate election commission offices.

Professor Tang, who is under investigation for allegedly spreading false information about President Lee Jae-myung, has filed an administrative lawsuit to nullify a travel ban imposed by the Ministry of Justice. Police had requested the ban, citing flight risks, as Tang's investigation resumed upon his arrival. He was reportedly scheduled to depart the country on June 4th, the day after the elections. Meanwhile, a civic group held a press conference urging the immediate arrest and thorough investigation of Tang, accusing him of gathering far-right elements in South Korea to spread falsehoods while refusing police questioning.

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The police must immediately arrest Moss Tang and thoroughly investigate and punish him.