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South Korea Deploys Unprecedented Security for Presidential Candidates

Advanced measures, including anti-sniper lasers and drone jammers, are in place as police respond to escalating threats ahead of the June 3 election.

A security personnel member operates specialized binoculars during a rally for Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung in Geoje, about 330 kilometers southeast of Seoul, on May 14, 2025. (Yonhap)
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Overview

  • Security for presidential candidates has been elevated to the highest state-official level, matching that of the prime minister and other top officials.
  • Police have introduced advanced equipment, such as laser-based anti-sniper systems, special-purpose binoculars, and drone jamming guns, to safeguard campaign events.
  • Bomb-sniffing dogs are conducting sweeps at rally sites, and special forces have been stationed at strategic locations near events.
  • The heightened security comes after reports of multiple online terror threats, including claims of sniper rifle smuggling, primarily targeting Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung.
  • The National Police Agency has not disclosed the total number of personnel deployed, but the force surpasses the 150 officers used during the 2022 election.