South Korea’s acting president, Han Duck-soo, urged the nation on Wednesday to accept the Constitutional Court’s upcoming ruling on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment, regardless of the outcome. Han, reinstated as acting president after the court overturned his own impeachment, warned against violent protests from either side. The Seoul government vowed zero tolerance for unlawful acts, with security forces mobilized ahead of Friday’s decision.
The ruling will determine whether Yoon resumes his presidency or if the country must hold a snap election within 60 days. A two-thirds majority of the eight-member court is required to uphold the impeachment. Meanwhile, opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, the presidential front-runner, expressed hope for a “rational verdict” that would safeguard democracy. Security measures have been heightened, with embassies warning their citizens to avoid political gatherings.
Adding to political tensions, South Korea’s opposition also pushed for the impeachment of former acting president and Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok, accusing him of obstructing judicial appointments. The unfolding crisis has deepened political divisions, with leaders calling for stability and social cohesion amid growing uncertainty.
