Ahead of Yoon Impeachment Verdict... Choi Sang-mok "Concern Over Threats to State Institutions, Thorough Response"

Acting President and Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok, who is also the Minister of Economy and Finance, is speaking at the National Counterterrorism Committee held at the Government Seoul Office on the 7th. Photo by Yonhap News

On the eve of the impeachment trial verdict for President Yoon Seok-yeol, Choi Sang-mok, Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, urged on the 7th, "The Police Agency, National Intelligence Service, and other related agencies should remain vigilant and thoroughly prepare in advance to prevent any unfortunate incidents from occurring."

Acting Prime Minister Choi made these remarks during the 20th National Counterterrorism Committee meeting held at the Government Seoul Office that morning, stating, "I understand there are concerns regarding recent threats to important national institutions and key figures."

He added, "In particular, agencies under the jurisdiction of the Police Agency should mobilize all available personnel and resources to strengthen safety management of key facilities, and establish a close cooperative system with related agencies such as the Prime Minister's Office to enable organic inter-agency responses."

He continued, "I urge related agencies to work diligently to enhance counterterrorism capabilities and maintain readiness with the mission of creating a Republic of Korea where citizens can live with peace of mind."

This appears to be a call for strengthened responses from relevant ministries following recent incidents such as the Western District Court riot related to President Yoon's impeachment trial and ongoing threatening remarks directed at the Constitutional Court.

During the meeting, the government reviewed the '2025 Counterterrorism Activity Promotion Plan' and the '2nd National Counterterrorism Basic Plan,' which outlines the direction of mid- to long-term counterterrorism policies.

Acting Prime Minister Choi stated, "Domestically, the possibility of infiltration by terrorist suspects linked to international terrorist organizations is increasing," and added, "There is a growing need to proactively prepare for terrorist threats arising from the spread of violent extremism fueled by conflicts and confrontations over major issues, as well as propaganda and agitation."