South Korea tightens security as Yoon impeachment ruling nears

South Korea is ramping up security measures as the Constitutional Court prepares to rule on whether to oust or reinstate impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, with large protests expected.

Authorities are bracing for potential unrest following Yoon’s December 3 martial law decree, which led to his impeachment and separate insurrection charges. The ruling could come as early as this week, drawing tens of thousands of demonstrators from both sides.

"We are setting up plans considering the worst-case scenarios," said Lee Ho-young, acting head of the National Police Agency.

Police will deploy riot control units, and officers have been authorized to use pepper spray and batons if violence erupts, following a January attack on a court building by Yoon supporters.

On ruling day, a nearby subway station will be closed, with potential train stoppages at key protest sites, Seoul Metro said. One school near the court has confirmed closure, with others advised to take safety measures, officials said.

The scene is reminiscent of the 2017 impeachment of President Park Geun-hye, when three people died and dozens were injured in post-ruling clashes. Police may also shut down gas stations near the court as a precaution.

Over the weekend, thousands of Yoon supporters rallied near his residence, prompting reinforced police checkpoints and roadblocks.

"Security has to be tighter than ever," a police official said, citing concerns about escalation. Authorities remain on high alert as the country awaits the court’s decision.

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