The Democratic Party of Korea's primary race for Naju mayor ahead of the June 3 local elections has been marred by reckless negative campaigning and fake news targeting rival candidates.
The two-way primary contest pits incumbent Yoon Byeong-tae, who is seeking re-election, against challenger Lee Jae-tae. As successive polls have shown Yoon leading Lee, allegations have emerged that malicious tactics are escalating in response.
On May 7, Yoon's campaign committee strongly condemned what it called efforts by Lee's camp and its backers to contaminate the election through the spread of false information, illegal filming, manipulated video footage, and distorted media coverage. The committee demanded an immediate apology.
"After verifying the facts regarding Lee's claims of 'government-power abuse and illegal electioneering,' we have clearly confirmed that this case constitutes a political smear based on fabricated facts and maliciously edited video materials," Yoon's campaign committee said. "In particular, the alleged remark about 'gathering elderly residents and telling them whom to vote for' does not appear anywhere in the video. It has been confirmed that such a statement was never made." The committee presented on-site video footage as evidence.
Moreover, a village head reported by Lee's camp underwent an investigation by the Naju Election Commission on the afternoon of the same day. The investigation found no violations, and the case was closed without being referred to prosecution authorities. Critics say that innocent Naju citizens have been the only ones harmed in the process.
"We have determined that this case represents an organized effort to sway public opinion and influence the Naju mayoral primary through the spread of false information, manipulated videos, and distorted media coverage," Yoon's campaign committee said. "We will hold those responsible to the fullest extent for violations of the Public Official Election Act and other relevant laws, and will pursue strong legal action."
Meanwhile, the Democratic Party primary for Naju mayor is currently underway from May 6 to 7, with the two candidates competing under a formula that combines party member voting (50%) and public opinion polling (50%).