South Korea: Unionzed construction workers rallying in Seoul Nov. 22

Event

Unionized workers are rallying in Seoul as of Nov. 22. The construction workers' wing of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) began the action at around 10:00 in Sejong-daero between Namdaemun and the Samsung main office building. Participants are calling for the government to pass a special construction safety act. Workers plan to march along Yeoui-daero from Mapo Bridge to Seoul Bridge from 13:30. Organizers claim that around 40,000 people will participate in the event.

Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture around the demonstration. Officers may also implement traffic-control measures in protest-affected areas; additional security measures are possible. Localized transport disruptions will almost certainly occur near the planned action sites; officials have warned of significant traffic congestion and advised commuters to use public transport in downtown Seoul for the duration of the rally. While violence is unlikely, isolated skirmishes may occur between police and activists, especially if participants attempt to gather in unauthorized areas or breach security cordons.

Advice

Avoid the demonstration as a security precaution. Plan for localized transport disruptions near the rally. Allow additional time to reach destinations in downtown Seoul Nov. 22. Heed all official transport and security advisories.