South Korea: Various labor and political groups plan to rally in Seoul Oct. 29

Event

Various labor and political groups plan to rally in downtown Seoul Oct. 29. Organizers have announced demonstrations at the following locations:

• National Revolutionary Party will hold a rally in front of the DongHwa Dutyfree store near Gwanghwamun Square from 13:00 and continue to march on nearby roads

• Activists from the Korea Federation of Trade Unions will gather at Seoul City Hall from 14:00 before marching towards Samgakji Station

• The Korea Alliance For Progressive Movement will demonstrate at Cheonggye Plaza from 17:30

• Transport unions plan to rally near Namdaemun from 12:00 and will march to Seoul Station.

Thousands of people could attend the events. Officials have advised the public to use public transport in downtown Seoul due to likely traffic congestion.

Police will likely deploy officers to monitor protests. Roadblocks are possible if significant rallies occur; localized transport disruptions are likely near protest sites, especially if activists block and/or march along roadways. Officials have warned that traffic congestion is likely in various roads in downtown Seoul such as Sejong-daero. Violence is unlikely, though minor skirmishes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, especially if participants attempt to gather in unauthorized areas or attempt to breach security cordons.

Advice

Avoid any gatherings as a precaution. Plan for localized transport and possible business disruptions near sites where demonstrations materialize. If violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernment building. Heed all official transport and security advisories.