On June 18, the National Police Agency of South Korea established election crime investigation situation rooms in 280 police stations nationwide, just over 80 days ahead of the June 3 local elections. This initiative highlights a renewed focus on controlling the risks associated with the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technologies, particularly deepfakes used for spreading misinformation. Acting Commissioner Yoo Jae-sung emphasized that the police would maintain a 24-hour response system until the election votes are counted, ensuring no gaps in addressing election-related crimes.

The police identified five major election crimes, including black propaganda, monetary bribes, public officials' involvement in elections, illegal mobilization of organizations, and electoral violence. In particular, those utilizing deepfake technology to commit election crimes will be directly investigated by cybercrime units equipped with specialized investigative capabilities. Yoo stated that the police would expend all resources to combat the spread of misinformation and illegal activities linked to AI technologies, including tracking down and arresting original deepfake creators and distributors.

In addition to law enforcement efforts, the police will make it a priority to protect the identities of those reporting election crimes, offering rewards of up to 200 million won for information leading to arrests. As significant changes are anticipated in South Korea's prosecutorial framework—with the abolition of the Public Prosecutor's Office and the establishment of a Serious Crimes Investigation Agency and an Independent Prosecution Office—the police expect to take the lead on these election crime investigations. Yoo expressed a commitment to cooperate closely with relevant institutions such as the election commission and the prosecution to ensure fair and rigorous enforcement of the law during the election cycle.