Will South Korea’s proposed foreign voting law ‘stir up anti-Chinese sentiment’?

Members of South Korea’s ruling conservative party proposed a bill that would place tighter restrictions on voting rights of foreigners in local elections

Critics say the bill could amplify hatred towards Chinese people living in South Korea

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The Chinatown main entrance gate in Incheon, South Korea. File photo: AP

Published: 6:30pm, 7 Dec 2022Updated: 8:27pm, 7 Dec 2022

A proposal by South Korea’s ruling party to limit the voting rights of foreign nationals, with a view to prevent China’s influence in its elections, has been described by critics as a polarising move that could foment hatred towards the Chinese community.

Kweon Seong-dong, a lawmaker from the ruling conservative People Power Party (PPP) and a close ally of President Yoon Suk-yeol, said on Tuesday the party had proposed a bill to tighten restrictions on the voting rights of foreigners living in the country.

“There is a possibility that foreigners’ voting rights could distort people’s opinion,” he said. “In fact, China has caused diplomatic friction by meddling in elections in Australia and Canada. That is why a lot of people’s concerns are real.”

The Canadian and Australian governments this year expressed concerns over alleged China attempts to influence their elections.

“Election systems are essential tools to maintain and operate a free democracy and they must not be abused,” Kweon wrote in his Facebook page.

I am afraid this bill would stir up anti-Chinese sentiments and further polarise public opinions

Ma Geon-hyeon, Chinese national living in South Korea

The bill, submitted by Kweon and 17 other party members, limits voting rights to foreigners who have lived in South Korea for at least five years after becoming permanent residents and are from countries which also allow South Korean permanent residents to vote in their elections.