Authorities in Yeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, have initiated an investigation into allegations of distortion and manipulation surrounding a recent mayoral election poll.
Investigation Details Emerge
Investigators seized the primary server linked to the poll, focusing on significant discrepancies in the data and related materials. The probe examines whether the survey was intentionally skewed to influence the election outcome.
Candidates Raise Alarm
The controversy surfaced on April 8 when four leading candidates—Park Seong-man, Song Myeong-dal, Yoo Jeong-geun, and Choi Young-seop—held a joint press conference. They highlighted major inconsistencies in the poll results, prompting formal complaints.
Suspected irregularities include the publication of a fabricated safety report, falsified ARS telephone survey responses, direct mobilization of voters, and large-scale recruitment by central party officials. One prominent candidate acknowledged prior awareness of these issues.
Park Seong-man’s Statement
Park Seong-man described the manipulated poll as “a blatant crime that undermines the foundation of fair elections by concealing other motives behind a fabricated safety report.” He urged authorities to conduct a thorough examination, covering poll design, data fabrication and leaks, external interventions, and individual canvassing efforts.
Police Response
A police spokesperson noted, “The investigation remains in its initial phase, limiting our ability to disclose specific content.” Officials emphasize a structured approach to uncovering the facts amid the ongoing mayoral race.
