South Korea arrests protester for blocking election poll site in Seoul

Protesters have been blockading the Olympic Park handball arena entrance in Songpa, Seoul, since the June 3 local elections suffered a shortage of voting papers. The demonstration, organized to pressure authorities over the ballot‑shortfall, escalated on June 2 when members of the National Assembly’s special election investigation committee attempted to enter the site.

Police forced the demonstrators to move, and a 60‑year‑old man was detained on suspicion of obstructing official duties and assaulting officers. He was formally arrested on June 4 after a judge cited a flight risk. The police investigation has logged 186 participants, filing 12 cases that include public‑duty obstruction, assault, defamation and threats. Four individuals have been sent to prosecutors, and one remains in custody.

Authorities say they will protect lawful expression but will act firmly against illegal acts such as blocking facilities, assaulting police or journalists, and defaming officials.