Gwangju Police to Strictly Respond to Election Offenses Such as Poster Vandalism

Nambu Police Station Arrests Man in His 50s for Damaging Election Posters
Police: "Even Scribbling on Posters Is Subject to Punishment"

On May 20, the Gwangju Metropolitan Police Agency announced that it will mobilize all investigative resources to strictly respond to various election-related offenses occurring during the campaign period for the 21st presidential election.

According to the police, on May 16, the Gwangju Nambu Police Station apprehended and is investigating a man in his 50s, identified as Mr. A, on suspicion of violating the Public Official Election Act by damaging a presidential election campaign poster.

Election campaign posters of candidates installed in Geumho-dong, Seo-gu, Gwangju ahead of the 21st presidential election. Photo by Song Bohyun

According to Article 67 and Article 240, Paragraph 1 of the Public Official Election Act, anyone who damages or removes campaign posters, banners, or other campaign facilities of a candidate without a justifiable reason may be subject to imprisonment for up to two years or a fine of up to 4 million won.

A police official stated, "We are working quickly to restore the damaged posters in cooperation with the local election commission," and added, "Posters and banners are important materials that help voters make their choices. Please be aware that even acts such as scribbling on or tearing them can result in criminal punishment." The official further stated, "We plan to conduct strict investigations into any acts of damaging posters or banners that occur during the election campaign period."