South Korea: Military parade planned in Seoul from 16:00 Sept. 26 ahead of Armed Forces Day

Event

South Korea will hold a military parade in central Seoul from 16:00 Sept. 26 ahead of Armed Forces Day Oct. 1. Over 7,000 troops, including US soldiers, and multiple military aircraft and vehicles will join the procession. Event venues include Seongnam Air Base (SSN), Segok-dong, and the main parade route from Namdaemun to Gyeongbok Palace via Seoul's central business district.

Extremely tight security and traffic disruptions are certain in Seoul through the evening of Sept. 26. Probable security measures include increased police and military patrols and security checkpoints on arterial roads into the city. Closures will affect Hyoja, Samcheong, Sejong, and Seosomun roads and access routes to Namdaemun, Gyeongbok Palace, and other event sites. Authorities may block access to nearby metro stations before, during, and immediately after the parade. Additionally, further missile test launches by North Korea are possible in the lead-up to Armed Forces Day, though the incidence of damage, casualties, or military escalation remains highly unlikely.

Advice

Do not engage in politically sensitive conversations. Carry proper identification at all times and heed all official instructions. Confirm business appointments, road status, and transport reservations. Allow additional time to reach destinations.