31 Jan 2019 | 11:07 AM UTC
South Korea: Student protest in front of the US Embassy in Seoul Jan. 31
Police forces arrest students protesting in front of U.S. embassy January 31; avoid all gatherings
Event
On Thursday, January 31, police personnels arrested a group of students gathered in front of the US Embassy building in Seoul. Protesters were denouncing Washington's demand for a sharp increase in Seoul's share of the upkeep costs for US troops stationed in the country and intended to hand over a letter of protest to the US diplomatic authorities. Further such protests are possible in the coming days.
Context
Seoul and Washington have held a series of talks since March 2018 over the financial cost South Korea should bear for the 28, 500 US troops stationned in the country. While the US administration is in favour of more financial support from the South Korean government, the majority of the South Korean public opinion is opposed to this measure.
Advice
Individuals present in Seoul are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.
