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Constitutional Court in South Korea Calls for Quick Appointment of Final Justice

SEOUL: The Constitutional Court of South Korea has urged the swift appointment of the final justice needed to restore its full nine-member bench, which is crucial for the deliberation of President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment trial. The call comes after recent appointments left one vacancy unfilled.

According to Yonhap News Agency, acting President Choi Sang-mok appointed two new justices on Tuesday in response to opposition demands to fill three vacancies on the nine-member panel. These appointments partially addressed the concerns surrounding the upcoming ruling on President Yoon's impeachment.

During a press briefing, Chun Jae-hyun, a spokesperson for the Constitutional Court, reiterated the institution's position, stating, "There is no change in our position that we hope for the prompt completion of the Constitutional Court to ensure a quick trial." The two newly appointed justices began their official duties on Wednesday and are expected to be immediately assigned to case hearings.

Legal guidelines dictate that at least six votes are necessary to uphold an impeachment motion. The recent appointments are anticipated to reduce uncertainties associated with President Yoon's impeachment trial, as the court now has the necessary number of justices to proceed with deliberations.

The Constitutional Court has a timeline of up to six months to determine whether to remove President Yoon from office or to reinstate him, a decision that carries significant political implications for the country.

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