South Korea's Lee Calls for Overhaul of Election Management After Flawed Vote

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has demanded a sweeping reform of the nation's election management system, citing a series of controversies, including ballot shortages, that marred the recent local elections. Lee described the issues surrounding the National Election Commission (NEC) as "absurd."

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We must hurry to conduct a thorough fact-finding investigation and carry out a full legal revision to reform the existing election management system at the level of dismantling it.

Lee has initiated an investigation into the ballot shortages, involving prosecutors and police. The incident has sparked public outrage, protests questioning the election's fairness, and led to the resignation of the NEC chief. "We must hurry to conduct a thorough fact-finding investigation and carry out a full legal revision to reform the existing election management system at the level of dismantling it," Lee stated during a press briefing.

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If the ruling and opposition parties can agree, perhaps we should pursue even a one-point constitutional amendment concerning the NEC.

He further proposed that if the ruling and opposition parties reach an agreement, a constitutional amendment specifically addressing the NEC could be pursued. Lee argued that the NEC, a constitutionally independent body, had operated with excessive freedom, lacking adequate oversight, and should be held accountable in proportion to its neutrality. The president also called for a firm response to any violence during post-election protests, while emphasizing the protection of peaceful demonstrations.

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If the ruling and opposition parties can agree, perhaps we should pursue even a one-point constitutional amendment concerning the NEC.