South Korea to Hold Presidential Election on June 3 After Yoon's Removal

South Korea is gearing up to choose a new president on June 3, following the dramatic removal of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. Acting President Han Duck-soo announced the election date on Tuesday, bringing clarity to a chaotic political saga that began with Yoon’s failed attempt to impose martial law last December. Now, the nation is on the hunt for a fresh leader to steady the ship.

The crisis kicked off on December 3, 2024, when Yoon shocked the country by declaring martial law, a move that caught almost everyone off guard. It was over almost as soon as it started, with the opposition-led National Assembly quickly stepping in to reverse it. Yoon didn’t help his case by sending security forces to surround parliament, a decision that rubbed many the wrong way. After months of heated debate, lawmakers impeached him, and the Constitutional Court sealed his fate last week, ruling he’d crossed a serious line. It’s just the second time in South Korea’s history that a president has been forced out like this, leaving the country reeling.

With Yoon gone, South Korean law mandates a new election within 60 days, locking in June 3 as the big day. Han Duck-soo, currently keeping things running, said it’ll be a public holiday to boost voter turnout. Aspiring candidates have until May 11 to register, with campaigning set to heat up starting May 12.

The political scene is already buzzing. The Democratic Party, riding a wave of public frustration, seems to have the edge, while Yoon’s former allies in the People Power Party are scrambling to regroup. With the economy tightening and new U.S. trade policies under President Trump stirring up trouble, voters are eager for someone who can tackle the growing challenges.

As June 3 draws near, South Koreans are bracing for a pivotal moment. This election offers a shot at a fresh start after a turbulent chapter, but the next president will face a tough road ahead.