27 Oct 2023 | 09:26 AM UTC
South Korea: Civic groups and opposition parties plan to stage rallies nationwide ahead of anniversary of Itaewon crowd crush, Oct. 29
Demonstrations planned across South Korea through at least Oct. 29 to commemorate victims of Itaewon crowd crush. Increased security likely.
Civic groups and opposition parties are holding rallies nationwide at least through till Oct. 29. The purpose of the demonstrations is to commemorate victims of the crowd crush event in Itaewon, Oct. 29, 2022, which left 159 dead and 196 others injured. Organizers have announced demonstrations at the following locations:
Oct. 28: Gwangju Park to Asia Culture Centre, 10:00
Oct. 29: Seoul Plaza, 17:00
Other related demonstrations are possible. Likely demonstration sites include the National Assembly, Seoul City Hall, and Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. Potential action sites in other cities include prominent government buildings, public squares and city centers, and along roadways in urban centers. Hundreds to thousands of people will probably participate in any upcoming action, with the highest attendance likely in Seoul.
Authorities will likely deploy additional security at announced protest sites and government buildings like the Office of the President, where rallies have been banned. Localized transport disruptions are possible, especially if activists march along or occupy nearby streets. While the protest will likely remain peaceful, clashes are possible if police forcibly disperse protesters or demonstrators attempt to breach security barriers.
Avoid any demonstrations due to possible clashes and to minimize travel delays. Allow additional time to reach nearby destinations. Confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations. Plan for increased security and localized transport disruptions near demonstrations. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
