President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation into the Central Election Management Commission's handling of election oversight on June 23. He stated, "While issues arising during the voting process are significant, it is also crucial to investigate related indirect corruption, budget waste, and hiring irregularities that have emerged."
During a Cabinet meeting and emergency economic assessment at the Blue House, President Lee remarked, "The problems arising from the voting process are important, but absurd issues like corruption within the Election Commission are also coming to light. We must do our utmost to eliminate negative elements within the Commission from now on."
He pointed out potential budget waste and acknowledged past hiring irregularities, asserting, "There have been aspects of lax management within the Election Commission that require precise investigation and accountability for any criminal issues."
In this context, President Lee suggested that the current joint investigation team, which consists of about 30 members, should be expanded. He noted, "If the Election Commission were under government control, we could take action, but as an independent agency defined by the Constitution, it is currently beyond our control. The National Assembly also finds it challenging to oversee and manage, which has led to many issues."
He added, "While the world admires South Korea's democracy, it is unacceptable for the agency responsible for overseeing this to operate in a state of unaccountability. We must quickly devise alternatives and measures. I understand both parties are working on solutions, and we will cooperate."
At the same time, he stressed the importance of responding firmly to the spread of fake news related to allegations of electoral fraud. President Lee stated, "While it is true that election management was inadequate, it does not mean the election itself was fraudulent. The dissemination of fake news and manipulated information can lead to significant social conflict, so we must investigate thoroughly and increase accountability."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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