South Korea’s interim leader has urged the nation to accept the Constitutional Court’s ruling on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment calmly, as authorities strengthen security around the court ahead of the highly anticipated decision on April 4.
At a ministerial meeting on safety ahead of the ruling, acting President Han Duck-soo warned against inflammatory political rhetoric and emphasised that the government would not tolerate any illegal or violent actions.
“No matter what decision is made, we must accept the results calmly based on the rule of law,” Han said. “If we can become one again with your strength and wisdom, we can overcome this crisis of confusion and conflicts.”
The Constitutional Court is set to decide on Friday whether to permanently remove Yoon from office or reinstate him. The president was impeached by parliament on December 14 over accusations that he violated his constitutional duties by declaring martial law without justifiable grounds. If the court upholds his impeachment, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days.
In response to potential unrest, South Korean police have tightened security around the court, with plans to deploy all forces from midnight before the ruling. Acting National Police Chief Lee Ho-young announced that the area around the court would be placed in a “vacuum state,” restricting access and separating pro- and anti-Yoon demonstrators to prevent clashes.
Vowing to respond firmly to any unrest, Lee said police would arrest individuals who vandalise property, threaten justices, or assault officers. Security measures were heightened after hundreds of Yoon’s supporters stormed a court building in January, breaking windows and forcing their way inside after his detention was extended. Han has also directed police to ensure the safety of Constitutional Court justices.
Meanwhile, political tensions deepened further as opposition lawmakers on Wednesday moved to impeach Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok. Choi, who was also acting president at one point, had angered opposition parties—who hold a majority in parliament—by repeatedly vetoing bills and refusing to appoint a Constitutional Court justice approved by the assembly.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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