Key Points
Constitutional Court unanimously upholds Yoon's impeachment
Snap election to be held within 60 days
Han promises smooth leadership transition
National security remains top priority
"As acting president, I will ensure that there is no vacuum in national security or foreign affairs, and (the country) maintains a firm and unwavering security posture," Han said in a televised national address.
"I will also do everything in my authority to ensure that there are no disruptions in addressing pressing issues such as trade disputes, and firmly maintain public order so that our citizens feel safe and secure," he said.
The Constitutional Court unanimously upheld Yoon's impeachment, removing him from office over his short-lived imposition of martial law in December. South Korea is required to hold a snap presidential election within 60 days, Yonhap news agency reported.
Han promised to do all he can to ensure a smooth transition of leadership to the next president.
"I will strictly abide by the Constitution and the law to ensure the next government is launched without delay," he said. "I will do my utmost to oversee a smooth and fair presidential election."
Han called on public officials to carry out their duties responsibly and with diligence.
"Please devote yourselves to ensuring that the Republic of Korea overcomes this crisis and that the everyday lives of our citizens remain steady and undisturbed," he said.
Han asked the political circles and the National Assembly to "set aside differences" and come together "in unity and with wisdom" for the nation's future.
Han also visited the central disaster headquarters at the government complex in Seoul to check safety and security.
He instructed officials and relevant agencies to make every effort to maintain public order and to minimise any damage or potential clashes arising from demonstrations.
"Now is the time for the people," he was quoted by his office as saying during the visit. "As the decision was made in accordance with our constitutional order, it must be respected, and the public should express their opinions peacefully and demonstrate mature civic awareness."
Comments:
James L.
Posted 2 hours ago
Acting President Han seems to be handling this transition with real professionalism. Stability is exactly what we need right now after such a turbulent period. Let's hope the election process goes smoothly! 🇰🇷
Soo-jin M.
Posted 1 hour ago
I appreciate Han's emphasis on maintaining public safety during this transition. The last thing we need is chaos in the streets. His visit to the disaster headquarters shows he's taking this seriously.
Tae-ho K.
Posted 45 minutes ago
While I respect Acting President Han's intentions, I'm concerned about how quickly we can hold fair elections in just 60 days. The political parties need to work together like he said, but will they? 🤔
Eun-ji J.
Posted 30 minutes ago
"Now is the time for the people" - this is exactly the right message. After all the political drama, we need leaders who remember they serve the citizens first. Hope this transition period brings some much-needed unity.
David W.
Posted 15 minutes ago
I think Han is doing his best in a difficult situation, but I respectfully disagree with some of his approaches. Focusing too much on "order" might suppress legitimate public discourse. Balance is key during transitions like this.
