South Korean Acting President Promises 'Zero Tolerance' for Violence Ahead of Yoon's Impeachment Ruling

Synopsis

On March 11, South Korean Acting President Choi Sang-mok emphasized 'zero tolerance' for violence as the Constitutional Court prepares to rule on the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. With concerns over potential protests, Choi affirmed the government’s commitment to peaceful demonstrations while warning against illegal actions.

Key Takeaways

Acting President Choi Sang-mok promises strict measures against violence.
Constitutional Court's ruling on Yoon's impeachment expected soon.
Government supports lawful protests but will enforce the law against violence.
Concerns over social tensions and public order are rising.
Opposition lawmakers plan a hunger strike for Yoon's removal.

Seoul, March 11 (NationPress) South Korean Acting President Choi Sang-mok on Tuesday committed to a policy of zero tolerance for any forms of violence as the Constitutional Court is poised to announce its decision regarding whether to restore or remove impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol.

The ruling is anticipated to be revealed as early as this week, causing apprehensions about potential confrontations as both supporters and opponents of Yoon are expected to assemble in significant numbers.

During a Cabinet meeting, Choi stated, “The government will ensure the right to conduct lawful and peaceful demonstrations to the fullest extent.”

“Nevertheless, any unlawful or violent protests, along with any challenges to public order, will be addressed rigorously under the law, without exceptions.”

Expressing concern over rising social tensions and potential physical confrontations, he called on citizens to maintain a mature civic awareness suitable for the country's stature, underlining that the international community is closely observing the situation, as reported by Yonhap news agency.

Since Yoon's suspension by the Opposition-dominated National Assembly in December due to his brief attempt to impose martial law, widespread protests have occurred nationwide.

Previously, hundreds of thousands of demonstrators congregated near the National Assembly, demanding Yoon's ousting. Nonetheless, protests have subsided following his impeachment.

Conversely, Yoon's supporters have persisted in organizing large rallies near the presidential residence in Seoul and other urban areas, advocating for his reinstatement.

In light of worries about potential unrest, police announced earlier that they would deploy all available resources and designate areas surrounding the Constitutional Court as special crime prevention zones on the day of the ruling.

Earlier in the day, some lawmakers from Opposition parties declared their intention to embark on a hunger strike, urging the Constitutional Court to issue a verdict to officially remove Yoon Suk Yeol from office due to his unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law.

A collective of Opposition lawmakers, including members from the main rival Democratic Party (DP), the Rebuilding Korea Party, and the Progressive Party, informed reporters of their hunger strike, pressing the court for a swift dismissal of Yoon, who was released from detention last Saturday.

Yoon's release followed another court's decision permitting him to stand trial without physical detention, citing questions regarding the legality of the investigations related to his charges.