South Korea: US vice president visit to take place in Seoul Sept. 29

Event

South Korea will host US Vice President Kamala Harris Sept. 29. Vice President Harris will meet with President Yoon Suk-yeol, likely at his office in the Ministry of Defense complex. Although details remain unclear, the vice president will join a roundtable with Korean women and meet with US military leaders and soldiers at the demilitarized zone (DMZ) during the one-day visit.

Activist groups opposed to the US-South Korea alliance could protest during the visit. Demonstrations could occur at the US Embassy, nearby Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul Plaza, and locations in Yongsan. However, significant rallies appear unlikely.

Increased security is likely in Yongsan, especially near the Ministry of Defense and other stops on Harris' itinerary. Authorities will probably erect checkpoints and block roads to facilitate the vice president's movements, leading to temporary localized disruptions. Authorities could temporarily close airspace around Seoul as Vice President Harris arrives and departs the city; flight delays are possible at Incheon (ICN) or Gimpo (GMP) international airports.

Advice

Heed all instructions of local authorities. Plan for localized traffic disruptions and flight delays. Seek alternative routes to avoid the Ministry of Defense complex and other locations on Harris’ itinerary. Allow additional time to reach destinations and confirm meetings near planned events, especially in Yongsan.