Acting President urges politicians to refrain from provocations as gov't prepares for verdict day

As Korea awaits the verdict, acting President Han Duck-soo has highlighted the importance of peacefully accepting the court's ruling while urging politicians not to instigate division and disorder.

Kim Do-yeon has more.

With the Constitutional Court's landmark decision on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment just days away, the government is on high alert—prioritizing citizen safety—as thousands of protesters from both sides are expected to fill the streets.

Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Wednesday presided over a meeting with safety related ministers and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and emphasized unity over division while calling on politicians to act responsibly.

"I also urge politicians: now is the time to prioritize the stability and survival of our community above political interests. Please demonstrate a responsible stance that promotes social unity rather than division and conflict. In particular, I earnestly ask you to refrain from making remarks that may incite or provoke illegal protests and violence."

Seoul Mayor also laid out the city government's plan to keep safety and order.

It's set to deploy 24-hundred personnel across the city's mass gatherings sites to oversee safety.

Public transport will be run according to the situation except for Anguk Station on Line 3, which will be closed on the day of the verdict.

Buses are set to take detours, while certain key metro stations such as Yeouido and Gwanghamun will be closely monitored to operate according to the crowd situation.

"Honorable citizens, the Seoul Metropolitan Government deeply respects everyone's right to express their opinion. At the same time, we reiterate that safeguarding a safe and peaceful daily life for our citizens is also a precious value that must be protected."

The police and relevant ministries have also laid out their plans.

Starting at 9 AM on April 3rd, the police agency will be on emergency duty.

Starting at midnight on April 4th, 100 percent of its available officers will be deployed to assigned positions.

The Safety Ministry will be in charge of the safety adjustments overall, while the Ministry of Science and ICT will be in charge of stationing additional mobile base stations so citizens' phone services aren't disrupted due to large gatherings.

The government's alertness comes with good reason.

Protesters for both sides have been gathering, with intensity mounting as polarized views clash in close areas.

Most recently, there was an attack at a local court in Seoul, where supporters of Yoon raided the building, vandalized it, and used violence against authorities.

Back in 2017, after the last presidential impeachment verdict, when President Park Geun-hye's impeachment was upheld, her supporters caused riots, charging toward the police.

This left four people dead.

Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.