South Korea: Activists plan to stage sporadic rallies and marches in Seoul, likely to organize similar events in other urban centers into late September

Activists affiliated with the Candlelight Movement will continue their series of sporadic protest campaigns in Seoul and are likely to gather in other parts of South Korea into at least late September. The primary purpose of the actions is to call for the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol. As of early Aug. 31, protest organizers had announced the following details about their planned demonstrations:

• Aug. 31: In Seoul, demonstrators will reportedly gather near Exit 7 of City Hall Station at 18:00 before marching through several parts of the downtown area, including Gwanghwamun Square and Jonggak Station.

• Sept. 2: Activists will rally at the National Assembly Communication Center, which is located within the National Assembly complex, in Seoul at 15:20. Additional related gatherings are possible in other urban centers.

• Sept. 21: Protest participants will gather outside the National Assembly building in Seoul at 16:00.

• Sept. 24: Protesters will assemble in front of the National Assembly building in Seoul at 16:00.

Further related gatherings are likely to occur in various urban centers, including Busan, on the listed dates and other days into at least late September. Potential gathering sites include prominent government buildings, public squares, transportation hubs, and thoroughfares. Well-attended gatherings typically attract thousands of attendees, particularly in Seoul.

Authorities will probably monitor any such gatherings that materialize. Officials could impose enhanced security measures, including a ban on public gatherings, especially near government buildings. Isolated minor scuffles between activists and police cannot be ruled out. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are likely.