South Korea tightens security ahead of impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol

At a security ministerial meeting ahead of the trial, Acting President Han Duck-soo stressed that he had "strongly asked" politicians not to make statements that could incite violence.

“The government will not tolerate any lawbreaking or violence. Whatever the decision, we must accept the outcome calmly, based on the rule of law,” Mr. Han said.

“If we can unite again with our strength and wisdom, we will overcome this crisis of chaos and conflict,” he added.

South Korea's Constitutional Court, which is considering the impeachment of President Yoon over his shocking martial law declaration, said it would announce on April 4 whether to permanently remove him from office or reinstate him.

Mr. Yoon was impeached by the National Assembly on December 14, 2024, on charges of violating his constitutional duties by declaring martial law in early December 2024 without justifiable grounds.

If the court rules against him, a new presidential election will be held within 60 days.

South Korean police have increased security in the area around the court, ready to deploy all forces from midnight until the announcement of the verdict on April 4.

Acting national police chief Lee Ho-young said the area around the court will be completely sealed off to limit access, as well as prevent protests for and against President Yoon to avoid clashes.

Pledging to deal strictly with acts of violence, Mr. Lee stressed that the police would arrest anyone who vandalized property, threatened judges or attacked police officers.

In January, hundreds of Mr Yoon's supporters stormed a court after his detention was extended, smashing windows and forcing their way inside.

Mr. Han also directed the police to strengthen protection of Constitutional Court judges against security threats.