South Korea: Anti-THAAD activists plan to demonstrate in Seongju County, North Gyeongsang Province, Sept. 3

Event

Various groups plan to demonstrate at Jinbat Bridge in Soseong Village, Seongju County, North Gyeongsang Province, from 13:30 Sept. 3. The protest site is at the entrance of a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile system military base. Participants are organizing the action to denounce the government's announcement to normalize operations at the THAAD base. Local residents and activists object to the deployment of the THAAD system due to alleged health and environmental concerns. Recent gatherings against the deployment have remained small, but protests drawing several hundred to a few thousand people are possible.

Heightened security measures and localized transport disruptions are likely in the vicinity of the protest. Protesters have blocked roads to prevent military movement to the deployment site during previous demonstrations. Similar efforts are possible during the demonstration and could lead to minor skirmishes between officers and protesters, though significant violence is unlikely. Related protests are possible at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the US Embassy in Seoul. Roadblocks are possible if larger rallies occur, particularly in Seoul, which could lead to traffic congestion near protest sites.

Seongju is approximately 13 km (8 miles) northwest of Daegu.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to possible skirmishes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near the gathering.