South Korea's election commission needs urgent reform after ballot paper shortage

South Korea's National Election Commission (NEC) is under intense pressure to reform its structure and crisis response systems following a significant shortage of ballot papers during the recent local elections. The incident has amplified calls for a fundamental overhaul of the NEC, an independent body established in 1963 to prevent "ruling-party elections" after the 1960 April Revolution.

Experts and political figures argue that the NEC's current structure, where eight out of nine commissioners are non-standing members with other primary jobs, contributes to a lack of oversight and accountability. Professor Jang Young-soo of Korea University's Law School described the NEC as operating like an "ownerless company," suggesting that non-standing commissioners cannot fully grasp the complexities of election management, leading to weakened decision-making and inadequate supervision.

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The entire election commission has become a disorganized organization, operating like an 'ownerless company.' How could non-standing election commissioners, who have their own main jobs, properly grasp the overall work of the election commission? The meaning and depth of their decisions weaken, and the overall management and supervision of the organization become insufficient.

The shortage occurred on election day, June 3, when the Songpa-gu election commission in Seoul recognized the issue late in the morning but failed to report its severity to higher officials promptly. The crisis was only acknowledged by the central NEC and city-level commissions late in the afternoon, highlighting a breakdown in crisis communication and response.

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The Board of Audit and Inspection is a constitutional body under the President, so there is a risk that it could be misused as a means to infringe upon the NEC's independence.

Proposals for reform are varied. Some advocate for constitutional amendments to allow external audits, such as by the Board of Audit and Inspection, which the Constitutional Court previously ruled against, citing infringement on the NEC's independence. Others suggest alternatives like making the NEC chairperson and provincial election commission chairpersons standing positions, or establishing an independent internal audit body. Concerns exist that subjecting the NEC to the Board of Audit and Inspection, which is under the president, could compromise its independence and lead to political influence.

Beyond structural changes, there is a strong consensus on the need to enhance the NEC's operational capabilities. Experts emphasize the necessity of a rapid response system, akin to a "5-minute standby team," to manage unexpected situations effectively. Suggestions also include adopting a system for printing ballots for both early and main voting days to prevent future shortages and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.

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When unexpected situations arise, the NEC should have a system like a '5-minute standby team' that can receive accurate reports and respond cohesively.