15 May 2023 | 01:38 PM UTC
South Korea: Unionized labor to strike and protest in Seoul May 16-17
Unionized workers plan to strike and protest in Seoul, South Korea, May 16-17. Increased security, localized transport disruptions likely.
Event
Unionized workers affiliated with the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) plan to strike in Seoul, May 16-17. The purpose of the 48-hour strike is to address various issues, including commemorating the death of a construction official who committed suicide, as well as calling for the resignation of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Organizers have called for the following rallies during the industrial action:
May 16: Participants will rally at Sejong Intersection and Sungnyemun Intersection. The specific start time of the event is unclear but it is planned to begin in the afternoon.
May 17: Protesters will gather at Sungnyemun Gate at 14:00 before marching towards Samgakji.
Participation is expected to be around 40,000 people, similar to the amount that took part in a rally held by the construction unit of KCTU in February.
Authorities will almost certainly deploy additional security in the vicinity of the rally sites and along the march route. Local police will close some roads to facilitate the events, causing localized transport disruption. Bus services will continue to operate as police plan to secure Sejong-daero street. While the event is likely to pass off peacefully, minor skirmishes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.
Advice
Exercise caution if operating nearby the rallies and/or along the march route. Plan routes to circumvent the impact area and allow additional time for travel. Anticipate higher demand for alternative transport, especially the subway, on May 16-17. Monitor local media for updated information about road conditions. Leave the area immediately if violence occurs. Heed instructions from authorities.
