Police officers stand guard outside the Constitutional Court in Seoul, Wednesday. Yonhap

Acting President and Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok vowed Friday to hold those who challenge public authority accountable under a zero-tolerance policy as the nation braces for potential unrest ahead of the Constitutional Court's ruling in President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment trial.

"We will strictly hold those who engage in acts such as facility destruction, arson and assault on police officers accountable," Choi said during a security-related ministerial meeting at Government Complex Seoul. "Freedom of expression is a precious right guaranteed by the Constitution, but it comes with responsibility."

With tensions rising between pro- and anti-impeachment groups, authorities are ramping up security measures to prevent violence and ensure public safety.

The Korean National Police Agency said it will issue the highest-level emergency alert on the day of the ruling, mobilizing 100 percent of police forces and suspending all officers' leave.

"We will establish an all-out response system to minimize social unrest before and after the ruling," Lee Ho-young, acting chief of the National Police Agency, said.

The police plan to deploy 337 mobile units nationwide, totaling around 20,000 officers. Special security measures will be implemented around key institutions, including the Constitutional Court, the National Assembly and major political parties' headquarters.

The area surrounding the Constitutional Court will be designated a special crime prevention zone with heightened patrols and safety fences.

Additionally, authorities will ban the release of privately owned firearms from police storage facilities and restrict drone flights in central Seoul. Any unauthorized drone activity will be intercepted, and operators will face penalties.

"The international community is closely watching Korea, and the resilience of our democracy is being tested," Choi said. "It is essential for all citizens to express their opinions through lawful means and respect the court's decision."

The Constitutional Court is expected to deliver its verdict next week, determining whether Yoon will be removed from office. The decision follows months of political turmoil and mass protests across the country.