SOUTH KOREA TO HOLD SNAP PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION AFTER YOON OUSTED

By law, a snap election mSEOUL, April 4 ( Bernama-Yonhap) -- The Constitutional Court's ruling that removed former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol from office over his failed martial law bid has triggered an early presidential election, likely to be held in early June, according to Yonhap news agency.ust be held within 60 days after the court ruling.

The law also stipulates that the date for a presidential election must be announced at least 50 days in advance.

This leaves an 11-day window for the election from May 24 to June 3, though analysts expect the vote to take place on the last day.

Observers point to June 3 -- the 60th day from Friday's ruling -- as the most likely date as the election is likely to be pushed back as far as possible to allow enough time for political parties to prepare for the primaries and campaigns.

When former President Park Geun-hye was removed from office on March 10, 2017, the early election was also held exactly 60 days later, on May 9.

Yonhap reported that if the election for June 3 is confirmed, the formal candidate registration period will be May 10 to 11. The official campaign period will run from May 12 until the day before the election, or June 2.

The law also requires a public servant running for president to resign at least 30 days before an election, making May 4 the deadline for their run.

Advance voting is expected to take place on May 29 to 30.

The newly elected president will assume office immediately after the election results without a transition team.

Following the court’s ruling acting President Han Duck-soo vowed to ensure stability in national security and diplomacy.

"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.

Han promised to do all he can to ensure a smooth transition of leadership to the next president.

-- BERNAMA-YONHAP