Page 73 - Election Book-ENG

big data and programming. Based on his firsthand experience
replicating the NEC’s manipulation methods, he demonstrated
the potential for creating specific outcomes using sophisticated
software. His findings suggest that digital manipulation is not
theoretical but has been actively employed in past elections,
o$ering compelling evidence of its feasibility and execution.

Role of Big Data and Early Voting Manipulation

Maeng emphasized the central role of big data in digital electoral
manipulation. He referenced studies by experts like Go Han-
Seok and NEC Secretary General Cho Hae-Joo, noting that the
NEC exploited public unfamiliarity with digital election concepts
to manipulate results. He detailed how early voting processes
were rigged using big data to fabricate non-existent votes or
preload phantom ballots into voting boxes, skewing results to
align with intended outcomes.

Server Manipulation and Evidence Suppression

Professor Maeng pointed to server manipulation and evidence
suppression as key issues. He criticized the NEC for allegedly
destroying servers during legal proceedings and failing to disclose
their location or status transparently. He interpreted these actions
as deliberate attempts to hide digital manipulation. Furthermore,
the NEC’s refusal to provide digital evidence has hampered legal
challenges and public scrutiny, presenting signi#cant barriers to
accountability.

2. Severity of Digital Electoral Manipulation: Technical Analysis and Countermeasures 73