South Korea Prepares for New Presidential Elections Amid Calls for Unity and Reconciliation
As South Korea gears up for new presidential elections following the definitive removal of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, the country’s Bishops are emphasizing the importance of national unity and reconciliation in the face of growing political polarization.
By Lisa Zengarini
After months of legal proceedings and political upheaval, South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol was officially ousted on April 4 by the Constitutional Court. This makes him the second South Korean president to be removed through impeachment, following Park Geun-hye in 2017.
The impeachment process was triggered after Yoon declared martial law on December 3, 2024, deploying armed soldiers to Parliament in a bid to assert his authority. However, the move was met with strong opposition and ultimately led to his suspension.
Yoon was subsequently arrested on insurrection charges but was released on March 7 after a court ruling in Seoul overturned his arrest on technical grounds.
New Elections on the Horizon
The final verdict, delivered unanimously by all eight judges of the Constitutional Court, highlighted Yoon’s violation of fundamental democratic principles, particularly the political neutrality of the armed forces.
With Yoon’s removal now confirmed, South Korea is preparing for fresh presidential elections to take place within 60 days. The country is currently grappling with deepening societal divisions, with some viewing Yoon as a necessary force against perceived threats, while others see him as a danger to democratic stability.
Addressing Political Polarization
Following the verdict, opposition lawmakers and anti-Yoon protesters celebrated, while his supporters expressed outrage. Amidst this backdrop, the Korean Bishops are stressing the need for national unity and reconciliation.
In a recent statement, Bishop Matthias Ri long-hoon of Suwon, the President of the Bishops’ Conference (KBCK), emphasized the importance of electing a responsible and moral leader to restore social harmony. He called on politicians to prioritize the welfare of the people over partisan conflicts.
“We must choose a leader who deeply understands that presidential power is power delegated by the people, power in service to the people, and who has the attitude and will to sacrifice at all times to protect the lives and property of the citizens.”
Bishops’ Call for Peaceful Elections
The Bishops are urging all branches of the State to work towards regaining the people’s trust and achieving harmony. They are calling on politicians to remember their duty to serve the people and promote a politics of mutual respect and listening.
Bishop Ri long-hoon stressed that the process of electing a new leader should be democratic and mature, focusing on social reconciliation and the common good.
The Catholic Church in Korea is committed to praying for the country during this critical period, with Bishop Ri expressing hope that the people’s choice will pave the way for justice and true peace.
Upholding Democratic Principles
Religious leaders in South Korea have been actively calling for respect for democratic norms and the rule of law. As tensions escalated prior to the verdict, appeals for unity and acceptance of the Constitutional Court’s decision were made by various religious groups, including the Catholic Church.
Cardinal Lazaro You Heung-sik, Prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for the Clergy, urged Catholics in Korea to heed the voice of justice and conscience. The Church in Korea continues to pray for the nation’s progress towards becoming a more mature democratic society.
(Source: Fides agency and other news agencies)
