The independent counsel team led by Lee Tae-han, investigating the shortage of ballot papers during the June 3 local elections and other issues, is officially launching today (September 7).

The special counsel team plans to hold a signboard-hanging ceremony at its office in Seocho-dong, Seoul, this morning to officially announce the commencement of its investigation.

The subjects of the investigation encompass a total of 12 allegations, including the ballot paper shortages, suspicions of manipulated voting statistics, and overseas trips of National Election Commission officials that were deemed for leisure rather than official business.

The primary investigation period is set for 90 days, and if necessary, it can be extended twice by 30 days each, allowing for a maximum investigation period of 150 days.