[Anchor]

The joint prosecution-police investigation headquarters is picking up speed in its probe into former National Election Commission Chairman Noh Tae-ak's overseas trips accompanied by his spouse. Investigators have uncovered circumstances indicating that four Election Commission officials were mobilized to assist with the unofficial itinerary of the spouse, even though the host countries did not invite her.

Here is more from reporter Kim Deok-hyeon.

[Reporter]

The joint investigation headquarters recently captured circumstances suggesting that the spouse of former National Election Commission Chairman Noh Tae-ak, who accompanied him on three overseas trips, cannot be seen as having performed official duties.

Investigators found that four National Election Commission officials escorted Noh's spouse for local sightseeing during the overseas trips.

Previously, the joint team conducted questioning regarding these individuals and reportedly secured testimonies confirming that they performed unofficial schedules.

According to Election Commission travel records, Noh's spouse did not attend schedules related to Election Commission duties, such as the electoral system.

Regarding an exclusive SBS report from June stating that there was no official invitation from the host countries for the spouse prior to the couple's overseas trips, the joint investigation team officially confirmed this through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The joint team ultimately determined that all of Noh's overseas trips accompanied by his spouse were planned independently by the Election Commission, and that all related budgets were covered by the commission.

The joint investigation headquarters is also looking into whether Noh was briefed on and aware of the travel plans in advance, and whether he was involved in the process of mobilizing Election Commission officials for unofficial schedules.

To verify these matters, the joint team summoned two officials from the National Election Commission, including one staff member who accompanied Noh on his overseas trip, as reference witnesses for questioning today (August 12).

Meanwhile, the joint investigation headquarters summoned the head of the Gangnam-gu Election Commission office as a suspect today regarding the ballot paper shortage incident, and is continuing to question related individuals over suspicions of voter turnout manipulation.

(Video Editing: Lee So-young, Design: Jo Su-in)