SINGAPORE - Singaporean nationals currently in South Korea remain largely untroubled by the anticipated mass protests set to coincide with the Constitutional Court's decision regarding President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment, slated for April 4.

In light of the situation, Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has advised citizens to steer clear of specific areas in Seoul, which include the Constitutional Court, Gwanghwamun, City Hall, the Presidential Office, the National Assembly, and the Presidential Residence in Hannam-dong, where protests are expected to unfold.

The implications of these demonstrations extend to tourists, as several cultural landmarks, including the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Palace Museum of Korea, and the National Folk Museum of Korea, have announced closures for the crucial day. Additionally, the annual Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival, which draws thousands of visitors, has been postponed from April 4 to 8, to mitigate the risk of crowd crushes during the protests.

At the heart of the protests is the impending court ruling on whether President Yoon will be removed from office due to his controversial attempt to declare martial law on December 3. This unprecedented move has already led to his suspension and arrest on charges related to insurrection.

Despite the unfolding tension, graphic designer Sophenia Siew expressed a relaxed attitude, stating she and a friend plan to visit Anguk, the vibrant area known for Bukchon Hanok Village and its charming cafes, on April 3. She mentioned, “We’ll probably just play it by ear. If we see lots of police or closed-off areas, then we’ll likely just head somewhere else until past the weekend.”

Conversely, other Singaporeans are opting for prudence. Jumin Tan is contemplating staying in her hotel on the day of the court ruling, while Megan Chu has made plans for a day trip to Suwon to avoid the chaos.

Singapore travel agency EU Holidays has proactively made adjustments for about 100 clients who were scheduled to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace. Fortunately, they can reorganize their itineraries, as the group has at least two days in Seoul. However, the agency is monitoring the situation closely due to anticipated roadblocks and heavy traffic.

Chan Brothers Travel indicated that their itinerary for tour groups in Seoul remains intact and experienced no significant customer concerns. Meanwhile, on April 3, the Singapore Embassy in Seoul took to social media to remind travelers that participation in political activities is prohibited for foreign nationals under South Korean law. The embassy further urged Singaporeans to stay informed through local news and hearken to the advice of local authorities.

In a precautionary measure, South Korean police heightened their alert status to the second highest on April 3, with half of the police force on emergency standby. The full force, including around 14,000 riot police, will be fully mobilized for the April 4 verdict.

Additionally, the Singapore Embassy announced it would not be holding in-person consular appointments on April 4, advising Singaporeans in South Korea to e-register with the MFA for increased safety measures. They also warned that Anguk Station would temporarily close, with possible adjustments to train and bus schedules in response to the situation.

As tensions rise, supporters and opponents of Mr. Yoon's impeachment are set to conduct overnight sit-ins beginning on April 3. This marks the second advisory issued by the Singapore Embassy within two weeks, signaling the urgency of the situation.

In a prior advisory on March 21, the embassy had cautioned Singaporeans about upcoming larger demonstrations and advised them to avoid crowded areas, demonstrating the gravity and unpredictability of the environment in Seoul as April 4 approaches.