Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency. Yonhap News

Around 11 AM on the 20th, police attempted to raid the headquarters of the "Freedom and Innovation" party, but it is understood that they have failed to enter the premises so far.

The police cited a violation of Article 89, Paragraph 2 of the Public Official Election Act in the warrant. This provision prohibits political parties or organizations established and operated by candidates from engaging in acts that influence elections targeting constituents from 180 days before the election day.

However, Hwang Kyo-ahn, leader of Freedom and Innovation, immediately protested. He strongly countered, saying, "You are suppressing a political party through a heinous political investigation," and "I will risk my life for justice." Leader Hwang further stated, "This is an unreasonable search and seizure to cover up election fraud," and is continuing strong protests at the scene.

A party official stated in a phone call with that "the warrant states a violation of 'Article 89, Paragraph 2 of the Public Official Election Act,' but this is a charge that cannot be established in the first place." Lawyer Park Ju-hyun also pointed out, "The criminal charge itself is not established."

Meanwhile, critical public opinion is spreading on social media, with comments such as "On what grounds are you conducting a search and seizure? To prevent election fraud?" and "The police are no longer the police of our country."

The standoff between the police and party officials is ongoing, and with lawyers confirmed to have arrived at the scene, the confrontation over the search and seizure is expected to be prolonged.