Joint Investigation Team Formed Over Ballot Paper Shortage in South Korean Elections

South Korea's prosecution service announced the formation of a joint investigation headquarters comprising prosecutors and police to thoroughly investigate the ballot paper shortage incident during the June 3 local elections. The move comes after President Lee Jae-myung ordered a swift and comprehensive probe to determine accountability and uncover the complete picture of the event.

"The prosecution and police will form a joint investigation headquarters and, through close cooperation with the police, conduct an efficient investigation to rigorously clarify the public's suspicions regarding this incident," the Supreme Prosecutors' Office stated in a press release on June 7. The statement emphasized the urgency and seriousness of the matter, assuring that all possible measures would be taken at the administrative level.

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The prosecution and police will form a joint investigation headquarters and, through close cooperation with the police, conduct an efficient investigation to rigorously clarify the public's suspicions regarding this incident.

The shortage affected 50 polling stations across the country on the election day, June 3, impacting voters' ability to cast their ballots. The incident led to significant public concern and criticism. In response, Noh Tae-ak, the chairman of the National Election Commission, held a press conference on June 5 and expressed his remorse, offering his resignation.

President Lee also addressed the issue on his Facebook page on June 7, urging the National Assembly to conduct its own investigation to clarify the truth and establish measures to prevent recurrence. The President stressed the importance of a thorough examination to restore public trust in the electoral process.

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The National Assembly must conduct its own investigation to clarify the truth of this matter and establish measures to prevent recurrence.