South Korea Sets Date for Presidential Election Following Impeachment
Seoul, South Korea – South Korea will conduct a presidential election on June 3, the acting president announced Tuesday, after former leader Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached and removed from office in the wake of a controversial martial law declaration. The upcoming vote follows a period of significant political upheaval in the nation.
Election Date and Public Holiday Announced
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, currently serving as acting president, stated that the government has scheduled June 3 as the date for South Korea’s 21st presidential election. He further mentioned that the designated election day will be observed as a temporary national holiday to encourage broad voter participation.
Grounds for Impeachment
Yoon’s removal from office by the constitutional court was based on findings that he violated his official duties. The court determined that his issuance of a martial law decree on December 3 and the subsequent mobilization of troops to impede parliamentary functions constituted a breach of his responsibilities.
Constitutional Requirement for New Election
Legal stipulations necessitate a new presidential election to be held within 60 days of the office becoming vacant. This constitutional mandate triggered the swift scheduling of the upcoming election.
Political Turmoil Preceding Election
South Korea has experienced months of political turmoil. The crisis began when then-President Yoon’s unexpected declaration of martial law prompted impeachment proceedings against him by the parliament, as well as against Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who initially also became acting president.
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Han Duck-soo’s Reinstatement
However, the impeachment of Han was subsequently overturned by the constitutional court, allowing him to resume his role as acting president until the forthcoming election.
Impact on International Relations and Economy
The leadership void in South Korea’s government has complicated Seoul’s engagement with the administration of US President Donald Trump. This comes at a critical juncture marked by escalating US tariffs and a deceleration in the economic growth of Asia’s fourth-largest economy.
Key Candidates in the Presidential Race
Lee Jae-myung, the popular leader of the liberal opposition Democratic party, who narrowly lost to Yoon in the 2022 election, is considered the leading contender. However, Lee is currently facing legal challenges, contending with multiple trials on charges including election law violations and bribery.
Meanwhile, Yoon’s conservative People Power party faces a less defined field of candidates. Labour Minister Kim Moon-soo emerged as a potential candidate, announcing his candidacy on Tuesday.
Public Opinion Poll
According to a Gallup poll released on April 4, public support for potential candidates is distributed as follows:
- Lee Jae-myung: 34%
- Kim Moon-soo: 9%
- Han Dong-hoon: 5%
- Hong Joon-pyo: 4%
- Oh Se-hoon: 2%