05 Apr 2023 | 07:27 PM UTC
South Korea: Student activists to stage rallies at 12 university campuses through April 12
Student activists to hold rallies at 12 university campuses in South Korea through April 12. Increased security, disruptions likely.
Event
Activists affiliated with the Peace Butterfly Network, an association comprising several university student groups, will hold rallies at 12 campuses nationwide through April 12. The purpose of the action is to demand the government withdraw its plan for compensating the victims of World War II-era forced labor. Organizers have revealed the following date and location details:
April 6: Ewha Women's University in Seoul.
April 7: Ewha Women's University, Sookmyung Women's University, Dongduk Women's University, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Korea University in Seoul.
April 12: Hanshin University in Gyeonggi.
Demonstrations will also take place near other undisclosed university campuses, and possibly at other locations, such as the Japanese Embassy in Seoul, as well as prominent railway stations, government buildings, public squares, and major thoroughfares. Previous demonstrations have typically attracted dozens of participants; in March, around 50 students marched from Seoul's Yongsan Station to the Office of the President.
Authorities will likely monitor such rallies and increase security near larger gathering sites, especially those that occur near government buildings and transportation hubs. While the rallies will likely remain mostly peaceful, isolated minor scuffles cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators may march along roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
