SEOUL: In a dramatic move aimed at safeguarding political stability, South Korean police have intensified security measures for Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the main opposition Democratic Party, following alarming reports of a potential assassination plot against him. The heightened security was enacted on Tuesday, March 18, after party lawmakers raised concerns about the existence of credible threats to Lee’s life.

This precautionary step comes on the heels of a previous incident in January last year when Lee was attacked and stabbed in the neck by an assailant who approached him under the guise of seeking an autograph. The perpetrator received a 15-year prison sentence, highlighting the growing volatility surrounding political figures in South Korea.

The atmosphere of tension in the country has been exacerbated since President Yoon Suk Yeol briefly instituted martial law in December, an unprecedented move that triggered one of the most severe political crises South Korea has witnessed in decades. This decision has deepened the divide between conservative and liberal factions and has strained public trust in governmental institutions.

In a developing story, President Yoon is currently facing a criminal trial for charges of insurrection. Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court is expected to deliver a ruling soon on whether to uphold his impeachment, a decision that could permanently strip him of his presidential powers.

As part of its preparedness for potential unrest, police have been bracing for clashes, with significant gatherings anticipated from both Yoon’s supporters and opponents following the court's verdict. Acting President Choi Sang-mok has urged the citizens to respect and embrace the court's decision, emphasizing the importance of stability in the face of political upheaval.

The backdrop of this political turmoil has led to fierce public sentiment, with hundreds of Yoon's supporters previously storming a court building in January, causing extensive damage and forcing the acting president to label the incident as “unimaginable.” The current state of affairs raises critical questions about the future of governance and civil order in South Korea as the nation navigates unprecedented challenges in its political landscape.

Will Lee Jae-myung's new security measures be enough to protect him amidst rising political violence? And can South Korea's fractured political landscape heal in time? Stay tuned for further developments.