- Acting President Han Duck-soo calls for calm ahead of Friday’s ruling.
- Authorities deploy 14,000 officers amid fears of violent protests.
- A snap election looms if Yoon is officially removed from office.
South Korea is on high alert as the Constitutional Court prepares to rule on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment. Acting President Han Duck-soo has urged citizens to accept the verdict peacefully, warning that the government will not tolerate violence.
Public sentiment largely favors Yoon’s removal, with polls indicating strong support for impeachment. If the court upholds the decision, South Korea will head to a snap presidential election within 60 days.
South Korea Awaits Landmark Impeachment Ruling
The Constitutional Court’s ruling on Yoon’s impeachment will have far-reaching consequences for South Korea’s political future. If Yoon is reinstated, he will serve until 2027, but if removed, the country will face an intense election campaign in the coming months. The opposition, led by Lee Jae-myung, anticipates a ruling that reinforces democratic principles.
Authorities are taking extraordinary measures to prevent violence, recalling the deadly protests that followed President Park Geun-hye’s impeachment in 2017. Acting President Han has assured that law enforcement will act decisively against any disruptions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public order.
The impeachment has deepened political divisions, with Yoon’s supporters and opponents staging massive demonstrations in recent weeks. The drawn-out process has fueled uncertainty, impacting investor confidence and international perceptions of South Korea’s stability.
Beyond domestic implications, the ruling may affect South Korea’s diplomatic standing. As tensions rise, neighboring countries and allies, including the United States and China, are closely monitoring the situation. Their embassies have issued warnings, highlighting the potential for unrest.
Regardless of the court’s decision, South Korea is entering a period of significant political turbulence. The ruling will shape the country’s leadership and set a precedent for future governance.
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
