Guards to Start Protecting President-Elect Upon Election

The presidential office said on Wednesday that it has assigned a special team of bodyguards and a bulletproof sedan to the president-elect to go into service as soon as his election is confirmed.

Presidential candidates have received general security service from police since their campaigns officially kicked off last month.

The presidential office said in a statement that the winner of Wednesday's vote -- widely expected to be Lee Myung-bak of the major opposition Grand National Party -- will enjoy presidential security once the nation's election watchdog confirms his victory.

The presidential office did not immediately reveal the number of guards to be deployed, but said security will also be extended to the family of the president-elect.

In addition to round-the-clock security around the president-elect's home and office, a bulletproof sedan will also be provided, the statement said.

Presidential guards specializing in emergency medical support, counter-explosive missions and food safety will also be on hand to ensure the next president receives the same level of security as outgoing President Roh Moo-hyun enjoys, the statement added.

South Korea's presidents serve a single five-year term.