In a dramatic turn of events, South Korea's Supreme Court has overturned a previous acquittal of Lee Jae-myung, the leading candidate in the upcoming presidential election, on charges of election law violations. This decision casts significant doubt on his eligibility to run in the June 3 snap election, potentially barring him from holding public office for five years if a subsequent sentence is imposed.

The political landscape, already unsettled by the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol over his brief imposition of martial law, faces further instability. Acting President Han Duck-soo resigned on Thursday, signaling his intention to enter the presidential race. In the interim, Education Minister Lee Ju-ho has assumed the role of acting president, marking the third individual to hold this position since December.

Lee Jae-myung, a prominent figure in the liberal Democratic Party, had been leading opinion polls despite facing multiple legal challenges. His disqualification could significantly alter the dynamics of the presidential race, potentially paving the way for conservative candidates to gain traction.

The nation now awaits the appeals court's sentencing, which will determine Lee's political future. Meanwhile, the electorate prepares for an election that could redefine South Korea's political trajectory amidst ongoing economic and diplomatic challenges.