The Election Commission (EC)—an independent constitutional agency equal in status to the National Assembly, Government, courts, and the Constitutional Court—was established for the purpose of fair management of elections, national referendums, and administrative affairs concerning political parties and political funds.

For political neutrality, the commissioners are prohibited from joining a political party or participating in any political activities. The terms and status of the commissioners are constitutionally guaranteed in order to ensure impartiality.

The duties of the Election Commission include fair and efficient management of elections, national and residents’ referendums, and recall vote in addition to administrative affairs related to political parties and funds, civic education, enactment and amendment of related laws. The Election Commission also studies political system of Korea and other countries to improve the political culture.