Government spokesperson and Minister Yu In Chon of the South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) assured foreign visitors that the “daily life in Korea remains unaffected” amid the impeachment trial of President Yoon Suk-yeol.
Korea’s National Assembly voted on Dec. 14 to impeach Yoon. He has been suspended from office while the Constitutional Court will start his impeachment trial. Prime Minister Han Deok-so is the acting president.
In a letter to the press dated Dec. 17, Yu In Chon explained what is happening in South Korea.
Government spokesperson and Minister Yu In Chon of the South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Photo from MCST)
The Myeong-dong shopping district in Seoul (Jonathan Hicap)
“As has been widely reported, President Yoon Suk Yeol was suspended from office following the passage of an impeachment motion against him. Therefore, Prime Minister Han Deok-soo is serving as acting president in accordance with the law,” he said.
He added, “Immediately after the impeachment motion was passed, acting President Han issued urgent directives. He ordered our military to raise alert levels to ensure that there are no gaps in national security and public safety and instructed all public officials to fulfill their duty to prevent any disruptions in our citizens’ daily lives and our businesses’ economic activities.”
Here is the rest of his letter:
“In addition, an extraordinary Cabinet Meeting was convened to review urgent pending issues related to the economy, security, society and other sectors. State affairs are being administered in an unimpeded and meticulous manner in accordance with the Constitution and laws.
“The government of the Republic of Korea is reinforcing its security posture, and the entire Cabinet is fully committed to maintaining the trust of our partner countries. Moreover, relevant ministries and agencies are working together to strengthen our emergency economic response system in order to closely monitor the economic situation in real time and ensure that our financial and foreign exchange markets operate smoothly.
“Major tourist attractions in Korea continue to operate as usual. A one-stop information system has been put in place for foreign tourists, providing them real-time interpretation services in multiple languages as well as relevant information and consultation services.
“The Republic of Korea has always found ways to overcome crises in collaboration with the international community, including the 1997 foreign exchange crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Daily life in Korea remains unaffected, and many inbound tourists are enjoying their time in Korea as before, making pleasant memories to bring home.
“The Korean people’s united strength and wisdom have enabled our democracy to function in accordance with the Constitution, and the country’s economic fundamentals remain strong. Despite the recent political developments, major international credit rating agencies continue to affirm that Korea’s credit ratings are stable.
“Our government remains attentive to the voices of journalists around the world and will do everything possible to overcome the current challenges. We appreciate you generously sharing your insights and opinions with the Republic of Korea as we strive to rise again.”