28 Nov 2023 | 06:19 PM UTC
South Korea: Activists to protest at Korean War Memorial in Yongsan District, Seoul, Nov. 30
Activists to protest at Korean War Memorial near Office of the President in Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea, Nov. 30.
Activists will protest at the War Memorial of Korea near the Office of the President in Yongsan District, Seoul, on Nov. 30. The purpose of the action is to denounce the government's legal considerations to prohibit dog meat consumption by 2027. As a part of their action, organizers have threatened to release two million dogs in Yongsan District and outside the Agriculture Minister's residence in South Chungcheong Province if the government decides to pass the proposed legislation. However, the scale of such tangible disruptions appears unlikely.
Additional demonstrations of varying types are possible in Seoul. Potential gathering sites include other prominent government buildings, as well as public squares and thoroughfares. Well-attended gatherings could draw thousands of participants. Authorities will likely monitor any such gatherings that materialize and may disperse overly unruly crowds. Officials may enact enhanced security restrictions, including roadblocks, especially near government buildings. Isolated skirmishes between police and activists, and between members of opposing social groups, cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators will probably march along and/or block roadways, causing localized transport disruptions. Localized business disruptions are possible.
Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional time near gathering sites. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
On Nov. 30, activists will protest in South Korea to voice their concerns regarding legislative considerations to ban dog meat sales in South Korea by 2027. The Yoon government and the ruling People Power Party have put forth a special bill seeking to phase out various aspects of the dog meat industry, including farming dogs for meat, slaughtering, distribution, and related businesses. The legislation, responding to the growing awareness of animal protections, would impose criminal punishment on violators, with a three-year grace period granted to those currently involved in the dog meat industry if the bill passes in the National Assembly.
