Presidential Vacancy, Election within 60 Days… 'June 3' Likely but Variables Exist
As the Constitutional Court approved the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol on the 4th, the government has officially commenced preparations for an early election.
Acting President Han Duck-soo is expected to officially designate the date for the next presidential election at the regular Cabinet meeting on the 8th, with June 3 being a strong candidate for the date.
According to Article 68, Paragraph 2 of the Constitution, if the presidency is vacant, a successor must be elected within 60 days. Accordingly, Acting President Han Duck-soo must designate a date for the 21st presidential election between May 24 and June 3, at the latest by the 14th.
Generally, presidential elections are held on Wednesdays, but in the case of an early election due to a presidential vacancy, there are no specific regulations regarding the day of the week, so June 3, a Tuesday, is being seriously considered. This is to ensure maximum time for election preparations and campaigning.
Considering Educational Schedules and Administrative Burdens… Possibility of 'May 28'
However, June 3 coincides with the national assessment day for the year 2025 organized by the Korea Institute for Curriculum and Evaluation. This mock exam is crucial for students preparing for the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), and concerns have been raised within the education community about overlapping dates.
In the past, schedules for mock exams have been adjusted due to national events, but this time, adjusting the election date is being considered a more realistic solution.
Taking all these factors into account, moving the election date up to Wednesday, May 28, is being reviewed as a strong option. If the election is held on May 28, early voting would take place on May 23 (Friday) and 24 (Saturday), ensuring a sufficient gap between the early voting and the main election day.
Additionally, by avoiding schedule conflicts with the CSAT mock exam, the education community's concerns are likely to be alleviated.
The Election Commission is set to convene a full meeting on the 7th to finalize the election date and will propose it to Acting President Han Duck-soo. It is anticipated that Acting President Han will respect the Election Commission's decision and finalize the election date.
Through this process, preparations for the early election seem to be on track, capturing public attention.
Image Source: Acting President Han Duck-soo / News1, Reference material for understanding the article / News1
