President Lee Jae Myung asks an election official about ballot-marking procedures while casting an early vote at the Samcheong-dong Community Service Center in Jongno District, Seoul, on May 29, the first day of early voting for the ninth nationwide local elections. [JOINT PRESS CORPS]
Early voting turnout for the June 3 local elections reached 23.51 percent, the highest level since the system was introduced for local elections in 2014. The figure reflects strong voter interest, particularly in races where candidates remain locked in close contests within the margin of error.
Voters, meanwhile, have generally exercised their rights with maturity. Polling stations across the country reported few disputes or disruptions. Allegations of fraud surrounding early voting, a recurring issue in recent nationwide elections, have also been far less visible this time.
Even so, controversy emerged when President Lee Jae Myung was seen carrying a marked ballot outside a voting booth during early voting. Lee briefly held an unfolded ballot while asking an election official a question about voting procedures, and the moment was captured by news cameras.
The People Power Party (PPP) filed a complaint with police, alleging a violation of election law because the ballot had been exposed. The National Election Commission, however, concluded that Lee’s actions did not constitute a legal violation.
