South Korea: Activists to hold memorial gathering at Hongik University metro station in Seoul 19:00 Nov. 30

Event

Activists plan to hold a memorial gathering at Seoul's Hongik University metro station starting at 19:00 Nov. 30. The purpose of the event is to honor the 10 victims of a recent apartment fire that broke out in Urumqi, China, during a COVID-19 lockdown; the incident sparked a series of antigovernment protests by Urumqi residents. Preliminary reports indicate that posters critical of Chinese President Xi Jinping's administration have been appearing at several universities in the Seoul area in the wake of the incident. Hence, further gatherings or related protests cannot be ruled out in and around the South Korean capital over the coming days, particularly near institutions of higher learning.

Authorities will likely monitor any demonstrations that may materialize and could move to disperse those that become disruptive. Localized transport disruptions may occur near the Hongik University metro station during the announced Nov. 30 gathering.

Advice

Exercise caution in the vicinity of the Hongik University metro station during the evening of Nov. 30. Plan accordingly for localized transport disruptions; allow additional time to reach destinations near potential gathering locations.