Controversy over Presidential Election Interference

On May 9, 2022, allegations of election interference arose when details of a phone call between President Yoon Seok-yeol and Mr. Myung-tae were made public. During this call, President Yoon allegedly made favorable comments about Kim Young-sun’s nomination, which the Democratic Party claims as evidence of his involvement in the nomination process. In response, the presidential office downplayed the significance of these comments, asserting that Yoon had never received reports concerning nominations. The Democratic Party, however, announced their intention to pursue legal action on the grounds that President Yoon's actions constituted illegal interference in the nomination process. Currently, the prosecution is investigating Mr. Myung-tae for manipulating public opinion polls in exchange for political benefits. The situation intensified as the recordings and messages from the phone call were disclosed, stirring public interest and concern. Questions surrounding potential violations of the Public Official Election Act have emerged, likely leading to significant political repercussions going forward.