In a significant political move, South Korea is preparing for a presidential election on June 3, as the nation grapples with the fallout from the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. Acting President Han Duck-soo emphasized the need for national recovery from turmoil, stating the imperative to "quickly heal from the wounds" left by the recent political upheaval.
South Korea Sets Presidential Election Date Amid Political Turmoil
South Korea Sets Presidential Election Date Amid Political Turmoil
South Korea's acting president announces elections to resolve a constitutional crisis following impeachment.
Acting President Han made the announcement on Tuesday, providing clarity to a politically fractured nation that has been in turmoil since the constitutional court upheld the impeachment of Yoon Suk Yeol on April 4. Yoon was removed from office by parliament in December after unexpectedly declaring martial law, a move that sparked widespread outrage and protests across South Korea. Many citizens viewed his actions as a desperate attempt to cling to power amid internal political crises rather than responding to external threats.
In addressing the nation, Han expressed remorse over the prolonged uncertainty South Koreans have faced, stating that he “sincerely apologizes for causing confusion and worries.” Meanwhile, political figures are starting to announce their candidacies for the upcoming election. Labour Minister Kim Moon-soo has officially launched his campaign after resigning from his position, while Ahn Cheol-soo, an established lawmaker and contender in previous presidential races, is also expected to participate.
However, leading the race is currently opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, whose approval rating in a recent Gallup poll stands at 34%. Lee previously lost to Yoon in 2022's closely contested election. The backdrop to these developments is a politically divided South Korea, caught between fervent protests against Yoon's martial law declaration and an increasingly extreme pro-Yoon faction.
Beyond political strife, South Korea must navigate new economic challenges, particularly with the imposition of a 25% tariff on exports to the US announced by former President Donald Trump. South Korean authorities are actively seeking discussions to mitigate the impact of these tariffs as the country prepares for its next presidential chapter amidst an economic and political landscape riddled with challenges.
In addressing the nation, Han expressed remorse over the prolonged uncertainty South Koreans have faced, stating that he “sincerely apologizes for causing confusion and worries.” Meanwhile, political figures are starting to announce their candidacies for the upcoming election. Labour Minister Kim Moon-soo has officially launched his campaign after resigning from his position, while Ahn Cheol-soo, an established lawmaker and contender in previous presidential races, is also expected to participate.
However, leading the race is currently opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, whose approval rating in a recent Gallup poll stands at 34%. Lee previously lost to Yoon in 2022's closely contested election. The backdrop to these developments is a politically divided South Korea, caught between fervent protests against Yoon's martial law declaration and an increasingly extreme pro-Yoon faction.
Beyond political strife, South Korea must navigate new economic challenges, particularly with the imposition of a 25% tariff on exports to the US announced by former President Donald Trump. South Korean authorities are actively seeking discussions to mitigate the impact of these tariffs as the country prepares for its next presidential chapter amidst an economic and political landscape riddled with challenges.
