Page 50 - Interview Book(KOR)-2025-01
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And keep in mind that just about any system can be hacked or compromised with
enough effort. Be as transparent as possible in allowing public review of election
systems to ensure they are "above board." Transparency goes a long way in allaying
suspicions, while also building confidence in the integrity of the electoral process and
systems.
Establish professional teams of investigators and lawyers (with
appropriate technical support and experts) who specifically examine
claims of electoral fraud. This is akin to the old Hong Kong ICAC (Independent
Commission Against Corruption) that did so much to clean up Hong Kong.
The United States should have something similar. Currently, there is no
serious effort made to mobilize the Department of Justice and the FBI to look into
electoral fraud in any timely or meaningful fashion. The chances of any widespread
or serious electoral fraud in the US electoral system being detected when it would
make a difference are remote, at best. Both sides (South Korea and US) might discuss
this topic.
Ensure a free and independent press and media. This is not easy given the
state of today’s media. However, the press and media, including ‘non-legacy’ media,
fill an essential need for exposing electoral wrongdoing. And that exposure has a
cleansing effect on the system.
Reexamine the 2020 National Assembly elections. This was when allegations
of electoral wrongdoing skyrocketed. A considerable amount of evidence is
memorialized in the OKN reports prepared in 2020 and 2021.
To be done jointly with the United States
The United States electoral system has come under immense scrutiny in recent years
– particularly following the election of President Trump in 2016. Doubts and
arguments about electoral integrity have been as fierce in the United States since the
contested 2020 presidential election as anything seen in South Korea.
President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance have promised to
examine the US electoral system and particularly allegations of electoral misconduct
in recent elections. It is no longer taboo in the United States to say the words
‘election fraud.’ Some on both sides of the political spectrum are grudgingly
admitting our system needs improvement.
Both countries, that are friends and long-time allies, would do well to consult closely
on challenges of mutual concern in their respective electoral systems. While there are
considerable difference in each country’s electoral system and processes, there are
also similarities and things that both sides can learn from each other.
A few areas of potential cooperation include:
Hardware and network security. Counting and voting systems used in some
American jurisdictions have been questioned for their reliability and security. A
review by South Korean experts would be welcome. Perhaps US experts might do the
same with South Korean hardware.
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