Political standoff between rival parties deepens ahead of early presidential election

South Korea has officially entered early presidential election mode, with a new president required to be elected within 60 days.

Rival parties in parliament remain deeply divided as the race begins.

Our political correspondent Shin Ha-young has more.

It's been one day since the Constitutional Court removed now-former President Yoon Suk Yeol from office, and the political standoff between rival parties is already deepening ahead of the early presidential election.

The People Power Party has called on the Democratic Party to take responsibility, following the Constitutional Court's call for greater tolerance and restraint in politics.

A PPP spokesperson noted on Saturday that the Court criticized parliament for operating unilaterally.

In Friday's impeachment ruling, the Court said the National Assembly should have respected minority views and sought compromise with the government.

The PPP emphasized that South Korea can only move forward by restoring parliamentary democracy.

It also pledged to help stabilize the country in the wake of the recent turmoil caused by the martial law declaration and the president's impeachment.

Meanwhile, the Democratic Party criticized the People Power Party, saying it should reflect on its actions and sever ties with those responsible for the insurrection before entering the early presidential race.

A DP spokesperson said on Saturday it was "shocking" that the PPP is already focused on winning the election following President Yoon's removal.

The party also urged Acting President Han Duck-soo to promptly set the election date, saying it should be announced no later than Tuesday of next week.

The date for South Korea's 21st presidential election is widely expected to be confirmed at Tuesday's Cabinet meeting.

Acting President Han Duck-soo held a phone call on Friday with National Election Commission chief Roh Tae-ak to discuss preparations for the upcoming vote.

The two reportedly agreed on June 3rd as the most likely election date.

"With an early election now confirmed, rival parties are expected to begin preparations for their primaries as soon as next week. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News."