Fellow Koreans,

A new morning has dawned in 2025, the Year of Blue Snake.

I sincerely wish that all of your hopes and dreams come true in the New Year, and that joy and happiness always fill your homes.

A tragic incident occurred a few days ago, in which numerous lives were lost in a passenger plane crash. With a deep sense of sorrow, I extend my heartfelt condolences to all those who have passed, and offer sincere comfort to their grieving families.

The National Election Commission (NEC) of the Republic of Korea made every effort to manage the 22nd National Assembly Elections, held last year, in accordance with the law and principles, and thanks to the active participation of the people, we achieved a high voter turnout of 67%.

Participating in elections is the most meaningful way to demonstrate that the true owners of our country are the citizens. I would like to express my deep gratitude to all the citizens who took part in this precious exercise of their sovereignty.

Fellow Koreans,

Following the sudden declaration of martial law in December of last year, the NEC experienced the occupation of its headquarters by the martial law troops. We were shocked and deeply surprised to learn that this action was related to allegations of election fraud.

Every election is supported by various institutional safeguards that guarantee fairness and security, and the entire process is transparently open not only to election officials but also to the public. Therefore, there is no possibility of organized fraud, as some have claimed. Furthermore, the numerous election fraud lawsuits raised over time have been dismissed by the judiciary as unfounded.

The occupation of the headquarters of the NEC, an independent constitutional body established to ensure fair election management, is an unconstitutional and illegal act that poses a serious threat to democracy. The relevant authorities must swiftly uncover the truth and take clear and decisive legal actions in accordance with the findings.

Fellow Koreans,

The current political situation in our country is so uncertain and chaotic that it is impossible to predict even a step ahead. The conflicts and confrontations between different political factions are intensifying day by day. It is a time to reflect once again on the fundamental principles of democracy, which lie in tolerance and understanding towards those with differing views, and in the restraint to exercise our rights with prudence.

Our nation has faced numerous political and economic crises in the past, and each time, the people have overcome these challenges with a mature sense of civic responsibility. I firmly believe that, just as before, we will navigate through these difficulties with wisdom and composure.

The NEC is deeply aware of the severity of the current situation and will closely monitor future political developments. Moreover, regardless of any changes in the political environment, we will faithfully carry out our duties as a constitutional body.

Fellow Koreans,

Democracy is not something that is completed at a fixed point in time; rather, it is an ongoing process that continuously evolves in response to the changing circumstances of the era and the needs of the people. The wisdom and courage that you, the citizens, provide will be a powerful force that propels our democracy forward.

This year, the NEC will continue to faithfully fulfill its constitutional duty of ensuring "fair election management" and will strive to realize the true value of elections, which form the foundation of democracy, in order to achieve social integration.

We will remain a commission that embodies hope for the Republic of Korea through participation and unity. We ask for your continued attention and support.

I sincerely wish you a happy New Year. Thank you.