Seoul: The government has formally set June 3 as the date for the next presidential election in the wake of the ouster of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. This decision was made during a Cabinet meeting, which took place four days after the Constitutional Court upheld Yoon's impeachment over his imposition of martial law in December.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Constitution necessitates that a new election be held within 60 days of a presidential vacancy. In line with this, the government has also declared June 3 as a temporary public holiday, ensuring citizens can participate in this pivotal election.
The National Election Commission wasted no time, beginning early candidate registration shortly after the Constitutional Court's decision to dismiss Yoon last Friday. Candidates are required to register by May 11, with the official campaign period slated to commence on May 12.
Further stipulations under the law require any public servant intending to run for president to resign from their position at least 30 days prior to the election, establishing May 4 as the deadline for such resignations. Notably, the incoming president will assume office immediately following the election without the formation of a transition team.
This situation recalls the removal of former President Park Geun-hye on March 10, 2017, which similarly led to an early election exactly 60 days later, on May 9.