Seoul: Sports officials were unable to enter the Olympic Park Handball Gymnasium, which served as the ballot-counting center for the June 3 elections, due to resistance from protesters despite a prior agreement. Rep. Jang Dong-hyeok from the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) explained that the officials were asked to leave the site due to "circumstances" complicating their entry, following an earlier expectation that the protesters would allow access to potentially end a 12-day standoff.
According to Yonhap News Agency, a protester wearing an American flag around her waist blocked the gate, resisting entry. Despite attempts by the PPP leader and other protesters to persuade her, she refused to step aside. The protest has seen groups blocking the gymnasium's 2-1 gate, demanding a rerun of elections marred by ballot shortages at 26 voting stations nationwide.
Since June 5, sports officials have been unable to access their offices inside the gymnasium due to the blockade. The officials sought access to retrieve essential work items, as agreed with the organizations and police, allowing two members per organization to enter at a time. The process was intended to be broadcast live with oversight by PPP lawmakers, and protesters were to check the retrieved items.
Earlier, the police issued three warnings to the protesters about potential criminal charges for business obstruction. To address the escalating tensions, Jang and other PPP lawmakers arrived at the site.
Following the denial of entry, Sports Minister Chae Hwi-young expressed his frustration on social media, condemning the violence and urging protestors to end the blockade. He warned of potential legal consequences if the illegal acts continued, urging the protesters to reconsider their actions.