[The Police File] Election Promotional Material Vandalism: A Warning Signal Threatening Democracy

The 21st presidential election is now just one week away. This 'early presidential election,' triggered by the imposition of martial law and the impeachment and removal of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, is marked by more pronounced conflict between candidates than any previous election. It is regrettable that candidate TV debates, which should be focused on policy discussions, have devolved into mutual mudslinging. Meanwhile, news reports about the vandalism of election posters and banners are pouring in almost daily.

According to the National Police Agency, as of last week, authorities have cracked down on 690 individuals suspected of damaging presidential election banners and posters. Of these, 12 people have been referred to the prosecution (one of whom has been detained), and 673 are currently under investigation. This figure is more than double that of the 20th presidential election.

In reality, incidents of election poster vandalism are occurring across the country. On May 23 in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, a man in his 60s was apprehended by police for damaging a presidential election poster because he disliked politics. During police questioning, he stated that he acted out of frustration, saying, "I don't think my difficult circumstances will improve through politics." The Jeju Provincial Election Commission has requested a police investigation to punish an individual who posted printed materials opposing a candidate. This person is accused of attaching nine such posters at six locations, including a bus stop in Jeju City, between May 23 and 24.

The confrontation between political camps is becoming increasingly extreme, and as a result, actions attacking or criticizing the opposing side appear to be manifesting as the destruction of election campaign materials. This is concerning, as it can undermine the fairness of the election.

Vandalizing election campaign materials is not a minor offense akin to simple property damage. It is a serious crime that undermines trust in the electoral process. Election law stipulates that those who damage campaign materials can be sentenced to up to two years in prison or fined up to 4 million won. I believe this is because campaign materials are not just ordinary objects, but essential elements that guarantee a fair election, which is at the heart of democracy.

There are many ways to express political opinions. However, violence or criminal acts should never be among them. The process of an election is just as important as its outcome. From this perspective, damaging campaign materials undermines the integrity of a fair election process. Everyone must refrain from such actions. While it is the responsibility of the election commission and investigative authorities to crack down on election-related crimes, it is the role of responsible citizens to safeguard the election process. It is necessary to respect differing opinions and acknowledge differences, moving beyond political confrontation.

I believe the essence of an election lies in voters making rational choices based on each candidate's policies and vision. Therefore, candidates' campaigns should be policy-centered, not focused on attacking or slandering opponents. After an election, there will inevitably be winners and losers, but a 'policy-centered election' and an 'election based on attacks and slander' will lead to very different outcomes in the aftermath.

Let politicians do what is required of them, and let citizens do their part. Perhaps the first step is to resist the temptation to vandalize election posters and banners. If we can steadily practice such small acts-like refraining from and preventing the destruction of campaign materials-I believe that free and fair elections can truly be realized in our country.