South Korea: Multiple groups plan rallies in Seoul March 1 to mark national holiday

Various groups plan to stage demonstrations in Seoul to mark the Korean Independence Movement Day on March 1. Planned gatherings will occur at the following locations:

• Jongno District: Over 35, 000 people will attend a rally by the Liberty Unification Party in front of Donghwa Duty Free Shop, 13:00-15:00.

• Jung District: The Korean Church Conservative Union plans to gather around 5,000 participants outside Exit 8 of the City Hall Station.

• Yeongdeungpo District: 1,000 activists affiliated with the Ten Million People Movement will march along Yeouinaru Road,12:00-17:00.

Additional unannounced demonstrations over perceived grievances and contemporary political issues are likely. Authorities have announced increased security deployment and traffic restrictions for the day, mainly around Sejong-daero in central Seoul; around 200 traffic police and over 4500 police officers will deploy. Although violence is unlikely, minor scuffles may break out if protesters attempt to breach security cordons or police try to disperse gatherings forcibly.

Transport disruptions will also occur, with officials advising residents to use public transport instead of private vehicles. Road closures will affect downtown Seoul, including the Jongno and Euljiro roads. Although traffic may pass between Sejong and Sungnyemun intersections, detours are likely in surrounding areas. Public buses may face rerouting and/or curtailment. Traffic disruptions are possible along other roads like Eunhaeng-ro, Gukhoe-daero, and Yeouigongwon-ro, especially if activists hold march on or block streets.