Seoul: The chief of the election watchdog has publicly apologized for the inadequate handling of early voting for the upcoming presidential election, pledging to investigate the root cause and assign responsibility accordingly.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Roh Tae-ak, chairperson of the National Election Commission (NEC), expressed regret over the criticism directed at the NEC concerning the subpar management of ballots during the two-day early voting period. The voting, which took place on Thursday and Friday, was held in anticipation of the presidential election slated for June 3.

“I’d like to sincerely apologize to the people over the poor management related to the early voting,” Roh conveyed to reporters at an election management committee office located in eastern Seoul. He assured the public that once the election concludes, the NEC would identify the reasons behind the mismanagement and hold those responsible accountable through legal measures.

The apology follows an earlier statement by NEC Secretary General Kim Yong-bin, who on Thursday acknowledged the mishandling of ballot papers at a polling station in western Seoul. At this location, some voters were observed taking their ballots outside after waiting in long queues. Additionally, an election worker was detained on Friday for allegedly casting an early vote on behalf of her husband.

Roh also mentioned reports of disruptions during the early voting period, including incidents where NEC workers were injured and an office of the election watchdog was broken into. Emphasizing the seriousness of these issues, Roh stated, “The NEC is taking the issue seriously. We will take legal steps to sternly respond to (such acts).”

The upcoming June 3 election comes in the wake of former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law in December, citing allegations of election fraud as a key justification for his actions.