An interim head of state known as "Mr. Stability" began his first full day in charge yesterday, urging South Koreans to remain calm after an unprecedented presidential impeachment and to shore up international confidence amid deepened political and economic uncertainty.
Prime Minister Goh Kun, who assumed executive powers from President Roh, also said the government will stick to its alliance with Washington and its policies toward communist North Korea.
There were no reports of unusual North Korean military movements following the South's leadership upheaval, but South Korea's military upped its vigilance against its neighbor.
The night before, thousands of angry South Koreans held candlelight vigils across the country to protest the impeachment of President Roh Moo-hyun, the country's first such move against a leader.
Prime Minister Goh Kun, who assumed executive powers from President Roh, stressed the need for continuity and calm in a brief statement delivered early yesterday.
Goh said the government "will conduct all its national projects and policies tasks without changes."
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