On April 28, the police announced that they are investigating 97 individuals in connection with the 21st presidential election.
At a regular press briefing on the same day, a police official stated, "According to the criteria for the five major election offenses, there are 88 suspects." The official added, "There are 76 cases of spreading false information and 12 cases of public officials' involvement in the election."
Regarding the case of the distribution of deepfake videos of Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Jaemyung, the police said, "A total of eight cases have been reported, and investigations will proceed according to procedures, including questioning the complainants."
The National Investigation Headquarters of the National Police Agency has established 'Election Offense Investigation Situation Rooms' at police stations nationwide and has launched a full-scale crackdown system.
The police are preparing for election-related crimes swiftly and thoroughly around the clock, centering on the Election Offense Investigation Situation Rooms. In addition, dedicated investigation teams have been mobilized to strengthen intelligence gathering on various illegal election activities, and close cooperation systems are being established with regional election commissions, prosecutors' offices, and other relevant agencies.
In particular, the police have designated the following as the 'five major election crimes' that seriously undermine the fairness of elections: bribery, spreading false information, public officials' involvement in elections, election-related violence, and illegal mobilization of organizations. Those who commit these illegal acts, those who plan or direct such crimes behind the scenes, and the sources of illegal funds will be subject to strict enforcement, regardless of their political party affiliation or position.
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