Joo Ah-min on the 'Ballot Paper Shortage' Incident: "Group Buy Suspended Temporarily... It's Only Natural to Feel Wronged" — Passionate Remarks in the U.S. [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

Broadcaster Joo Ah-min (42) publicly voiced her concerns regarding the 'ballot paper shortage' incident during the the 3rd local elections.

On the 4th, Joo posted a message on her Instagram: "I can't sleep even in the United States. Regardless of whether it's left or right, isn't this our country, where our children have a future to live in? I lacked the courage to speak out until now, but I can no longer remain on the sidelines."

She continued, "I will temporarily suspend the group buy. This is not about who did right or wrong; it is simply about discussing what we have naturally enjoyed and what we naturally deserve. Even if you dislike my stance and use harsh words, I believe that is a natural right in a democracy that guarantees freedom of expression, and I respect it. Therefore, I hope my thoughts and opinions are also respected."

Joo further stated, "Although I currently live in the United States, I am a citizen of the Republic of Korea, and my family members support different political administrations. However, we do not disrespect or criticize each other for that. Loving one's family does not change just because our views differ. Until recently, I had no particular interest in politics and held no specific political affiliation. I also believed that having a political stance would not benefit me given my profession. However, in recent years, while raising my child, I became interested in politics and felt it was necessary. Since each of my followers is a precious part of my profession, many unfollowed me after the post I made yesterday. I believe that people in my profession or those who are famous will be even more cautious in their words for this reason. However, I consider elections a fundamental pillar of democracy and believe they are a right naturally granted to citizens of the Republic of Korea. Regardless of which administration comes to power through such fair elections, I hope and support that the administration, formed by the will of the people, will govern well. It is the duty of the people to trust and support them." She added, "I believe it is only natural that those who could not vote in this election feel bewildered and wronged. If we question such an unprecedented event, does it make sense to ask, 'Are you right-wing if you speak up? Are you left-wing if you stay silent?'"

He said, "I feel it is a very serious problem that the current social atmosphere is being shaped into one where no one can speak out even when witnessing such incidents, and speaking up would make one seem abnormal. I wanted to express my convictions for the first time because I believe our country is one where such things can happen, should happen, and must happen. This is because I believe it is a democratic society with freedom of expression." He further raised his voice, stating, "Regardless of who becomes the Seoul Mayor, I believe a re-vote is necessary. For those who could not vote at all, I believe it is only proper to grant them the right to vote again."

Later, Joo strongly criticized the situation, asking, "What is happening to this country? Regardless of which camp wins or loses, shouldn't everyone feel upset? If the Korea Educational Assessment Service had printed too few OMR sheets on CSAT day, causing students to be unable to mark their answers and leave, would there be any parents who would remain silent? When students and parents asked why there were not enough OMR sheets, and the head of the Assessment Service replied, 'I do not know the cause,' and when asked how they would take responsibility, they said, 'It will follow the court's ruling.' Would anyone remain silent in such a case?"

Earlier, during the voting process of the 9th National Simultaneous Local Elections and the National Assembly by-elections held on the 3rd, an unprecedented incident occurred where voting was temporarily suspended at some polling stations, including Seoul Songpa-gu, due to a shortage of ballot papers. This affected 67 out of 14,288 polling stations nationwide, and additional ballot papers sent to 50 of these locations were actually used. It was revealed that 22 polling stations had voting suspended and then resumed.

Meanwhile, Joo Ah-min debuted in the entertainment industry in 2008 by appearing in the music video for the solo song 'I Know' by god member Son Ho-young. She later gained recognition through variety shows such as Mnet's 'Men Like Rain from the Sky' and ENA's 'Shiny Husband.'

Joo Ah-min married an American-born Korean man who was a former U.S. military officer, three years her senior, in 2013. They had a son in 2015. In 2019, she drew attention by revealing her 100-pyeong mansion in Seattle, United States.

<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>

*This content was translated by AI.View Original