South Korean authorities are preparing for a significant security operation ahead of the Constitutional Court’s ruling on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment, with approximately 14,000 riot police set to be deployed in Seoul.
The figure represents 60% of the nation’s riot control forces and reflects the highest security alert level, according to Yonhap News Agency.
The court concluded proceedings last month regarding Yoon’s impeachment, which was triggered by his declaration of martial law on 3 December. While a verdict is expected soon, the exact date has not been disclosed. The ruling has sparked widespread tension, with large-scale protests anticipated regardless of the outcome.
Initially, authorities planned to deploy 12,000 officers but increased the number to 14,000 to address potential large-scale demonstrations and security threats. Criminal justice officers will be stationed inside the Constitutional Court premises, while special police units will remain on standby nearby. Officials have warned that anyone attempting to breach the court will be immediately detained.
To further enhance security, the area around the court building has been declared a no-fly zone since 13 March, and anti-drone technology will be deployed to counter unauthorised drone activity.
Operations at a nearby school, subway station, petrol station, and four construction sites are expected to be halted on the day of the ruling. Additionally, access to the rooftops of 22 surrounding buildings has been restricted.
The heightened security measures follow an incident in January when Yoon’s supporters stormed the Seoul Western District Court in protest over his formal arrest. The impeachment case has deepened political divisions in South Korea, with both supporters and opponents of Yoon preparing for the court’s decision.
