Seoul: Police have strengthened security for candidates of the June 3 presidential election, deploying specialized observation equipment and special forces as part of measures to prepare for possible terror threats, officials said Sunday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the level of police security for candidates of major political parties is being maintained at the level provided for the prime minister, the speaker of the National Assembly, and the chief justice of the Supreme Court. Unlike previous presidential races, police have introduced advanced specialized equipment as part of the security efforts, with security personnel being spotted with special-purpose binoculars at campaign rallies.
Police have recently deployed anti-sniper observation equipment, which reportedly cost tens of millions of won and employ laser technology to detect sniper rifle scopes. Special forces have been stationed at buildings around rallies to enhance security.
To counter possible terror threats using drones, police have also deployed personnel equipped with drone detectors and jamming guns. Additionally, bomb-sniffing dogs are being used to sweep rally stages as part of the security measures.
The strengthened security measures come in response to ongoing reports of terror threats targeting Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung, including claims of a sniper rifle being smuggled into the country. The National Police Agency has not disclosed the exact number of security personnel deployed, but it is reportedly more than the 150 officials mobilized for the 2022 presidential race, with the possibility of additional personnel being assigned.