Key takeaways:

• The South Korean Constitutional Court is set to announce its decision on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment on April 4, 2025.
• The ruling could either permanently remove Yoon from office, triggering a new presidential election, or reinstate him immediately.
• Heightened security measures are in place around the court as police prepare for potential unrest amid a highly polarized political climate.

SEOUL, April 2 (Reuters) - The South Korean Constitutional Court will rule on Friday whether to permanently remove President Yoon Suk Yeol from office in a highly anticipated decision following his impeachment in December. Yoon was suspended by parliament on December 14, after being accused of breaching his constitutional duties through a brief declaration of martial law on December 3, which he argued was necessary to counter the opposition's actions but was seen as a move to suppress dissent.

The court's ruling is expected at 11 a.m. local time on April 4. If upheld, Yoon will be ousted and a new presidential election will need to be held within 60 days; if dismissed, he will resume his duties. The court's decision requires at least six of the eight justices to vote in favor of impeachment, a situation that has incited public rallies both for and against Yoon, creating a tense atmosphere nationwide.

Acting President Han Duck-soo urged citizens to remain calm and accept the ruling, emphasizing the importance of public order and urging politicians to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric. Police have ramped up security measures around the Constitutional Court, preparing to deploy all available forces to maintain peace and avert clashes due to potential protests from both pro-Yoon and anti-Yoon factions.

The anticipated court ruling is not only about Yoon's presidency but represents a significant crossroads for South Korea's political landscape, particularly as public opinion remains divided. A recent poll indicates that around 60% of South Koreans support his impeachment, reflecting widespread discontent with Yoon's leadership style and decisions during his term. Political analysts have suggested that regardless of the ruling, large-scale demonstrations are expected, indicating deep divisions within the society that may impact the nation's stability.

For more information, read the full articles from New York Times and Al Jazeera.