The vacancy of the presidency and a presidential election within 60 days… 'June 3' is likely, but variables exist.

With the Constitutional Court ruling on the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol on the 4th, the government has begun earnest preparations for an early presidential election.

Acting President Han Duck-soo is expected to officially designate the date of the next election at the regular Cabinet meeting on the 8th, with 'June 3' being mentioned as a strong candidate.

According to Article 68, Section 2 of the Constitution, if the presidency is vacant, a successor must be elected within 60 days. Consequently, Acting President Han Duck-soo must designate the date for the 21st presidential election between May 24 and June 3 by the latest on the 14th.

Typically, presidential elections are held on Wednesdays; however, there are no specific regulations regarding the day of the week for early elections resulting from a presidential vacancy, and June 3, a Tuesday, is being seriously considered. This is to ensure ample time for election preparation and campaigning.

Considering the education schedule and administrative burdens… the possibility of 'May 28' emerges.

However, June 3 coincides with the date of the 2025 National Unified Scholastic Ability Test organized by the Korea Institute for Curriculum and Evaluation. This mock assessment is the most crucial practice test for upcoming college entrance exam candidates, raising concerns in the education sector about the overlap with the election date.

In the past, there have been instances where schedules for mock assessments were adjusted due to national events, but adjusting the election date this time is considered a more realistic option.

Taking all these circumstances into account, the proposal to move the election date to Wednesday, May 28, is being strongly considered. If the election is held on May 28, early voting will take place on May 23 (Friday) and May 24 (Saturday), ensuring sufficient time between the main vote and early voting.

Moreover, this would avoid scheduling conflicts with the college entrance exam practice test, alleviating concerns in the education sector.

The Election Commission will convene a full meeting on the 7th to finalize the election date and propose it to Acting President Han Duck-soo. It is expected that Acting President Han will respect the Election Commission's decision and finalize the election date.

Through these procedures, it appears that the early election will be prepared without disruptions, capturing the public's attention.

Image source: Acting Prime Minister Han Duck-soo / News1, material photos for the understanding of the article / News1