Prime Minister Kim Min-seok Calls for Resignations Over Election Ballot Shortage

Prime Minister Kim Min-seok stated on June 7 that the recent shortage of ballots for the June 3 local elections warrants the resignation of senior officials at the Election Commission.
During a meeting at the Government Seoul Building with current and former student council representatives, Kim expressed his disbelief over the situation, saying, "This incident is something I have never heard of before, and it is unacceptable. The public's outrage and calls for accountability are entirely justified."
He criticized the ballot shortage as a violation of voting rights and a challenge to the foundations of democracy.
Kim also mentioned that he had instructed the Minister of the Interior and Safety to initiate an investigation, stating, "If necessary, we should consider a national investigation or a special prosecutor's inquiry through discussions in the National Assembly. This is the current stance of the government, including President Lee Jae-myung."
He noted that President Lee has shown deep concern over the issue and emphasized the need for thorough fact-finding and accountability.
"We will use all available legal means to clarify the facts surrounding this issue, and if legal amendments are necessary, we will pursue them, even if it takes time," he added.
Kim pointed out that the Election Commission holds exclusive authority over voting and election management, lacking external oversight or monitoring systems, which he described as a significant problem. He called for institutional improvements and expressed his intention to foster a nationwide discussion on the matter.
Regarding calls for a re-election, he remarked, "While we should verify the facts, whether a re-election is necessary is a matter that requires further discussion. Some areas have already determined winners regardless of the ballot issue, raising questions about the appropriateness of a re-election and whether the winning candidates would accept it."
Meanwhile, President Lee Jae-myung announced on Facebook that he has directed the establishment of a joint investigation team involving the prosecution and police to clarify responsibility for the ballot shortage and thoroughly investigate the incident.
He added, "The government will also take all possible measures at the administrative level, considering the seriousness of the situation."