Acting president pledges swift action to address public unrest

Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo salutes the national flag during a Cabinet meeting at Government Complex Seoul, Saturday. Newsis

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who assumed the role of acting president following the National Assembly's passage of a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol on Saturday, pledged to stabilize the nation's political turmoil and restore normalcy for the citizens.

"I take full responsibility for the unfortunate situation facing the people. I humbly apologize to the people," Han said in a statement issued at the start of the first Cabinet meeting he convened as acting president.

"At this moment, the most important mission is to swiftly stabilize the confusion in state affairs and restore the cherished daily lives of the citizens."

Han officially assumed the role after the Assembly's resolution regarding the impeachment was sent to the presidential office and Yoon's duties were suspended at 7:24 p.m.

"I'll make sure there will be no vacuum in state affairs," he said, pledging to resolve the crisis swiftly by establishing a robust security posture and strengthening trust with key allies, including the U.S. and Japan. He also outlined plans to reinforce the emergency economic response system and ensure thorough preparedness for all types of disasters.

"I urge all public officials to remain steadfast in their responsibilities, staying in their designated positions and performing their duties to help stabilize state affairs," he added.

Later on Saturday, Han chaired a National Security Council meeting. He stated," North Korea must be prevented from attempting any provocations. I urge the continuation of a flawless state of readiness, ensuring that not even the smallest security gap occurs."

This makes Han the 10th acting president in South Korea's history. According to the Constitution, the prime minister assumes presidential duties when there is a vacancy or incapacitation of the president.

Han now holds all presidential powers, including command of the armed forces, the authority to ratify treaties, and the right to request legislative reconsideration. The Presidential Security Service has also formed a dedicated team to ensure the safety of Han and his spouse.

Despite this, political observers expect Han to exercise only minimal authority, focusing on maintaining the status quo rather than engaging in active governance.

Han is under investigation by both an opposition-led special counsel and the National Police Agency due to his presence at a Cabinet meeting held shortly before Yoon declared martial law. The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea is considering launching an impeachment process against Han.

Should Han become unable to fulfill his duties as acting president, authority will pass to Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok, the next official in the legal order of succession.