Wei Cheol-hwan, acting chairman of the National Election Commission (NEC), is presenting a business report at a plenary session of the special committee for the National Assembly's investigation into the infringement of the right to participate in national affairs and election management reform due to a shortage of ballot papers, held at the National Assembly on the 23rd. [Yonhap News] Wei Cheol-hwan, acting chairman of the NEC, said on the 23rd regarding the shortage of ballot papers in the June 3 local elections, "We will do our best to investigate the facts and listen to the voices of the people regarding countermeasures."

When asked by Rep. Kim Eun-hye of the People Power Party at a plenary session of the National Assembly's special committee for the National Assembly investigation on the same day, "Do you intend to resign taking responsibility for the situation?", Wei responded, "I believe that would be irresponsible," and made the aforementioned statement.

Wei emphasized, "The NEC is currently on the verge of being paralyzed," adding, "After the NEC chairman resigned, the work to resolve this situation is in a state of vacuum."

He further added, "If I resign, the approval line (system) will collapse at this point. I won't be able to do anything."

When pointed out that there is suspicion of obstruction of justice regarding Wei, who is under investigation, he said, "There is absolutely no obstruction of justice. There is nothing I can do."

To the question, "Has a travel ban been imposed?", he replied, "I don't know," and to the question, "Have you received a summons from investigative agencies?", he answered, "Not yet."

He also stated, "If there is any wrongdoing, I will accept any punishment."

Previously, on the 14th, Rep. Na Kyung-won of the People Power Party urged a travel ban and commencement of investigation for Wei, the de facto power holder of the NEC, stating, "Standing Committee member Wei is a close friend, known as a classmate and 'dining companion' of President Lee Jae-myung from the 18th graduating class of the Judicial Research and Training Institute."