Election watchdog vows all-out enforcement push in final stretch of local elections

The National Election Commission said it has mobilized all available enforcement personnel — including regional investigation teams and fair-election support units — to intensify prevention and enforcement activities as election day for the 9th nationwide simultaneous local elections draws near. The NEC also said it has notified political parties and candidates of rules prohibiting post-election expressions of gratitude.

Election law violations recorded in connection with this year's local elections stand at 1,482 cases as of Sunday — comprising 270 criminal complaints, 73 referrals for investigation and 1,139 warnings or other measures — a 14.88 percent increase from the same period during the 8th local elections.

The NEC said it has taken strict action, including filing criminal complaints, against numerous violations across the country during this election cycle, including candidate vote-buying.

In one case, a person offered money to constituents in exchange for persuading a prospective candidate in the same electoral district to withdraw from the race. In another, a candidate who failed to advance through a party primary demanded cash from the finalists in exchange for endorsements.

In a separate case, a former civil servant created a KakaoTalk group chat to promote a specific prospective candidate, organized offline gatherings and provided food — effectively establishing and running a private organization for electioneering purposes. A civil servant was also referred for criminal complaint on charges of conducting primary campaigning and electioneering through the same chat room.

The NEC notified parties and candidates that, after election day, they are prohibited from offering gifts or entertainment to constituents, holding victory celebrations or consolation gatherings, marching or chanting in groups on public streets, or posting banners — all under the guise of expressing congratulations or condolences.

"We plan to respond with zero tolerance to any unlawful acts ahead of election day, including disruptions at polling and counting stations or NEC offices, and any assault or intimidation of NEC commissioners or staff," an NEC official said. The official urged parties, candidates and voters to cooperate fully so that the local elections can be carried through to the end in a fair and clean manner.