[Reporter’s Notebook] The 'Three Major Evils' of Election Campaigns Must Be Eradicated

In front of Exit 2 of Sillim Station in Gwanak-gu, Seoul, campaign vehicles parked on the sidewalk can be seen every morning during the commute. This is not an issue specific to any particular political party. It is as if someone has assigned turns, with vehicles from different parties taking turns to park there.

Candidates casually hand out business cards saying, "Hello, I am candidate number ○, △△△," and speakers make contradictory statements such as "Please vote for the party that follows the law" while disparaging opposing parties. Even though these are campaign vehicles, parking at intersections, crosswalks, pedestrian crossings, or sidewalks is clearly illegal.

However, the police and local governments hesitate to enforce regulations due to the political sensitivity of the matter. In effect, there is a lack of regulation during election periods, and only the candidates enjoy special privileges.

Traffic violations, noise, and defamatory banners are called the "three major evils of election campaigns." In the 2022 elections, which included the presidential and nationwide local elections, 11,746 complaints related to campaign activities were filed. This is about three times higher than in 2021 (386 cases) and 2023 (298 cases). In February and March, ahead of the March 9 presidential election, there were 1,744 and 1,725 complaints respectively, and in May and June, around the June 1 nationwide local elections, there were 4,063 and 1,184 complaints respectively.

Loud campaign vehicle music and microphone speeches are perennial issues during elections. According to current law, the loudspeaker system on campaign vehicles cannot exceed a rated output of 3 kW or a sound pressure level of 127 dB. However, considering that noise from railway substations is 100 dB, car horn noise is 110 dB, and noise generated during fighter jet takeoffs and landings is 120 dB, there is doubt about the effectiveness of election noise regulations. A citizen met in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, was surprised and said, "Is that level really allowed?"

As election day approaches, defamatory banners flood competitive areas. In fact, candidates in the Cheonan Gap district engaged in mudslinging battles including defamation lawsuits over banners. Political parties place banners in areas with high foot traffic. The recurring flood of banners during elections is a factor that disrupts urban aesthetics. The best solution would be voluntary regulation through agreement among parties, but it is doubtful whether a smooth agreement can be reached.

It is hoped that if a new National Assembly is launched after the general election, institutional alternatives will be sought. Can we really allow behaviors that repeatedly cross the line between illegal and illicit acts during every election? Those who claim to represent the people and run for office should consider what truly serves the public interest.