Following the Constitutional Court’s verdict that ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol from office on Friday, the nation has been left in search of a new leader.
By law, the next presidential election must be held within 60 days to fill the vacant post. Acting President Han Duck-soo is required to announce the date within 10 days.
According to the National Election Commission, the voting date can be set between May 24 and June 3. Given that the 2017 presidential election was held exactly 60 days after the ousting of former President Park Geun-hye, June 3 is likely to be the voting day.
The acting president said he will ensure the stable management of state affairs while preparing for the upcoming presidential election. On Friday, he spoke with Roh Tae-ak, chairman of the election commission, by phone regarding the matter.
Parties that wish to participate in the election must determine and register their candidates by May 11, a day before the official campaign period launches. Those currently serving as local office chiefs have to resign by May 5 if they want to join the race.
