Jamsil vote counting center blockade enters 12th day; police, KSOC clash with protesters

Protesters have been blocking the Jamsil vote counting center for 12 consecutive days, a demonstration sparked by a ballot shortage during the June 3 local elections. The standoff intensified on June 16 when police and officials from the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee (KSOC) attempted to gain access to the venue, located within the Olympic Park Handball Stadium.

Earlier on the morning of June 16, police and KSOC representatives tried to enter the counting center. They were forced to retreat after facing resistance from the protesters. Discussions are ongoing between the parties. The KSOC proposed entering the facility along with citizens to retrieve items necessary for the respective sports' administration. The protesters are currently deliberating on this proposal.

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We urge the deployment of public authority.

The situation has created significant logistical challenges for numerous sports organizations housed within the stadium. Nine national teams, including synchronized swimming, wushu, fencing, mountaineering, billiards, dance sports, sepak takraw, handball, and water skiing, are based there. The fencing national team, for instance, is unable to access its equipment and is scheduled to depart on June 16 for the Asian Championships, which begin four days later.

In response to the ongoing blockade, the KSOC held a press conference the previous day, calling for the intervention of public authority. The police have stated they will take strict measures against any illegal activities. The prolonged protest highlights the deep-seated issues arising from the election irregularities and their cascading impact on national sports preparations.

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We will take strict measures against illegal activities.