Political tensions at Nat'l Assembly ahead of President Yoon's impeachment ruling

Tensions are also running high at the parliament as lawmakers await in anticipation the verdict that also holds immense implications for party plans going forward.

Our National Assembly correspondent Shin Ha-young reports.

Ahead of the ruling on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment trial, the political standoff at the National Assembly continues, with rival parties holding different expectations for the outcome.

The ruling People Power Party expects the Constitutional Court to dismiss the impeachment and for President Yoon to return to office.

If Yoon is reinstated, the PPP plans to push for a constitutional amendment to fit present day values. Yoon said earlier that he would not cling to power, but instead pursue constitutional reform.

Interim PPP leader Kwon Yong-se on Thursday reaffirmed that the party will accept the Court's ruling and urged the opposition to do the same.

"The PPP and I will accept the Constitutional Court's impeachment ruling and prepare for what comes next. We strongly urge the Democratic Party to deeply reflect on its actions and accept the outcome."

Kwon also urged the Court to deliver a ruling that the public can accept to minimize conflict and confusion.

Some PPP lawmakers decided to hold an overnight sit-in near Anguk Station, close to the Constitutional Court, until Friday morning.

On the other hand, the main opposition Democratic Party argues that Yoon's removal is the only option, urging the Court for a unanimous decision to impeach Yoon.

The DP lawmakers have stepped up their protests, holding an all-night sit-in at their tent set up in Gwanghwamun Square for outdoor rallies.

DP floor leader Park Chan-dae said there is enough evidence to prove Yoon's impeachment.

"There is already overwhelming evidence to justify Yoon's removal. I have no doubt that the Court will remove him from office for violating the Constitution."

While the National Assembly has tightened security, restricting outside personnel from entering the premises, both parties have ordered their lawmakers to stay on standby at the parliament this week.

"Amid growing political tension between the rival parties as the impeachment ruling approaches, there are calls for politicians to prioritize national unity after the verdict.

Shin Ha-young, Arirang News."