Seoul Olympic Park protest escalates amid ballot paper shortage

Protesters have continued to block the voting centre at Seoul’s Olympic Park in Jamsil, demanding a new counting of the June 3 local‑election results after a shortage of ballot papers. The demonstration, which began with tens of thousands of participants, has dwindled to roughly 1,000‑5,000 people but remains volatile. Participants have clashed with each other and with police, including a reported fist‑fight that prompted an ambulance call.

The police have deployed over 2,000 officers, including riot squads and mobile units, to keep order. Authorities say 58 illegal‑activity cases have been opened and 139 suspects are under investigation. The protest has attracted a mix of ordinary citizens, political figures such as former Minister Hwang Kyo‑an, and right‑wing YouTubers, as well as religious groups, leading to internal divisions over the rally’s purpose. Calls range from “re‑election” to “same‑day voting counts,” while some demonstrators have brandished U.S.‑style “Stars and Stripes” flags alongside the Korean national flag.