Five special prosecutors from the Election Commission, led by Lee Tae-han, reported for duty on September 2 to investigate allegations of violations of citizens' voting rights, including ballot shortages during the June 3 local elections. The team emphasized the importance of voting rights and the need for investigations based on law and principles as they began preparations for their work.
The special prosecutors—Kim Sang-cheon, Kim Jin-woo, Kim Eun-jung, Park Hyuk, and Kwon Geun-hwan—arrived at their office in Seocho-gu, Seoul, throughout the morning.
Kim Sang-cheon told reporters on his way to work, "This is a significant matter with great public interest, and we will do our utmost to ensure procedural legitimacy while uncovering the substantive truth."
Kim Jin-woo stated, "Voting rights are the foundation of democracy, and I will do my best with a strong sense of responsibility."
Kim Eun-jung expressed, "I feel a heavy sense of responsibility in taking on this important role, and I will carry out my duties strictly according to the law and principles during the investigation period set by law."
When asked about his feelings on his appointment, Park Hyuk simply replied, "I will do my best." Kwon Geun-hwan also stated, "I will work hard" before heading to the office.
The special prosecutors reportedly met with Lee Tae-han for the first time to discuss the status of their preparations for the investigation. The team plans to assign tasks based on each prosecutor's expertise and experience.
The special investigation team will undergo a preparation period until September 6 and officially commence investigations with a ceremony on the 7th. The investigation will focus on 12 allegations, including ballot shortages, manipulation of voting statistics, reduced printing rates of ballots, and suspicions of overseas trips and improper hiring and promotions among Election Commission officials.
The special prosecutors are reviewing case records transferred from the joint investigation team of the police and prosecutors while also accelerating efforts to secure dispatched personnel. The dispatched prosecutors are expected to join by the 7th. The special investigation team can conduct investigations for a maximum of 150 days.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.