Seoul Police Chief Says Olympic Park Protest Over Ballot Shortage Declines

Protestors have been blockading the handball arena at Olympic Park in Seoul for more than two months, demanding action over the shortage of ballot papers for the June 3 local elections. Police chief Park Jeong‑bo said the crowd size has dropped sharply since the National Election Investigation Committee’s on‑site inquiry, estimating about 100 participants in the morning, 300‑400 at midday and 600‑800 in the evening, with peak gatherings of 1,500‑3,000 now reduced to roughly 1,000.

A total of 113 illegal‑activity reports have been filed relating to the sit‑in; 46 cases have been closed while investigations continue for the remaining 67. Five cases involve obstruction of public officials, eight suspects have been forwarded for prosecution and three are currently detained. Park affirmed that the police will cooperate if sports bodies seek to re‑enter the venue, but emphasized that public safety remains the priority and that force may be used if necessary. The Korean Sports Association plans a press conference to call for a swift resolution of the venue’s prolonged blockade.