Embassies in Korea issue alerts ahead of impeachment ruling

Foreign embassies in Korea are closely monitoring the situation and advising their citizens to exercise caution ahead of the Constitutional Court’s ruling Friday on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment.

The U.S. Embassy in Seoul issued an advisory Wednesday, cautioning American citizens of the potential for large protests and increased police presence in the capital.

“In connection with the Constitutional Court's verdict on the impeachment of President Yoon, U.S. citizens should anticipate large-scale demonstrations and an increased police presence," the embassy said in a posting on X.

"Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place, and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large crowds, gatherings, protests, or rallies."

Embassy of China in Seoul / YonhapEmbassy of China in Seoul / Yonhap

Potential protest sites include the National Assembly, Gwanghwamun Square, the Constitutional Court, the presidential office and the official residence. The embassy also announced the suspension of routine consular services at its Gwanghwamun location on Thursday afternoon and throughout Friday.

The Russian Embassy issued a similar advisory, warning its nationals in Korea to avoid large gatherings and refrain from engaging in political activities. The Chinese Embassy also cautioned that large-scale rallies could take place across the country and did not rule out the possibility of violent incidents. It urged its citizens to remain alert and take necessary safety precautions.

The advisories come as Korea awaits the Constitutional Court’s decision on whether to uphold Yoon’s impeachment, a ruling that could spark significant political unrest. Authorities have intensified security measures, with police reinforcing key government sites and protest-prone areas in anticipation of mass demonstrations from both pro- and anti-impeachment groups.

Korea has seen high-profile protests in recent years, including mass demonstrations that led to the ousting of former President Park Geun-hye in 2017. Officials have emphasized that they are committed to maintaining public order regardless of the ruling’s outcome.

The Constitutional Court is expected to deliver its verdict at 11 a.m. Friday. If upheld, Yoon will be permanently removed from office, triggering a presidential election within 60 days. If overturned, he will resume his duties immediately.