South Korea: Anti-THAAD activists likely to demonstrate in Seongju County, North Gyeongsang Province, through at least mid-September

Event

Activists will likely continue to demonstrate in Seongju County, North Gyeongsang Province, through at least mid-September. Participants oppose the normalization of the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile system, citing alleged health and environmental concerns. On Sept. 14, police dispersed nearly 200 roadside protesters near Jinbat Bridge who blocked the movement of vehicles from entering the US Forces Korea base. Recent gatherings against the deployment have remained small, but additional demonstrations drawing up to several hundred protesters are possible.

Heightened security measures and localized transport disruptions are likely in the vicinity of any gatherings. Though significant violence is unlikely, additional minor skirmishes are possible if protesters block roads to prevent military movement to the deployment site. Related protests are possible at the US Forces Korea base in Seongju, as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the US Embassy in Seoul. Authorities may erect roadblocks if larger rallies occur, particularly in Seoul, prompting traffic congestion near protest sites.

Seongju is approximately 13 km (8 miles) northwest of Daegu.

Advice

Avoid any protest due to possible skirmishes. If violence breaks out, depart the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near any potential gatherings.