Key facts
- South Korea's National Election Commission chief, Roh Tae-ak, resigned.
- The resignation is due to a ballot paper shortage during local elections.
- The shortage disrupted voting in 50 polling stations and delayed supplies to 22 others.
- Voters waited for hours after polls closed, with some blocking ballot box transport.
- An investigation into the cause of the mishap will be conducted by outside experts.
The head of South Korea's National Election Commission (NEC), Roh Tae-ak, announced his resignation to take responsibility for a ballot paper shortage in some districts during Wednesday's local elections. The shortage disrupted voting, with 50 polling stations running out of papers and 22 experiencing delays in receiving supplies. This incident led to public outcry and distrust in the election process, with voters waiting for hours after polls closed and some blocking ballot box transport. Roh stated there could be no excuse for the failure and that an independent panel of experts would investigate the cause, with consequences to follow its findings. The final turnout for the elections was 63%.