Police Chief: "800 Gaekcheonjeol Rally Reports All Banned Without Exception... Strict Response to Illegal Gatherings"

Commissioner Kim Chang-ryong of the National Police Agency. / Photo by Kang Jin-hyung aymsdream@

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] As far-right groups have announced their intention to hold large-scale rallies on October 3, National Foundation Day, following the August 15 Liberation Day rally, the police have once again emphasized their strong stance against illegal assemblies.

On the 21st, Police Commissioner Kim Chang-ryong stated at a press briefing, "We have received about 800 assembly reports, and among them, for more than 10 assemblies and those held in locations where rallies are completely banned such as Jongno-gu, Jung-gu, and Nowon-gu, we have issued prohibition notices without exception."

Commissioner Kim added, "Even for assemblies with fewer than 10 people, if there is a risk of COVID-19 infection or potential for spread, we are also issuing prohibition notices after careful assessment."

The police plan to deploy forces in advance if prohibited assemblies are forcibly held, install police lines and metal fences to fundamentally block gatherings, and immediately proceed with dispersal procedures and arrest on-site if illegal unreported rallies continue.

They are also preparing for injunction applications from rally organizers. Commissioner Kim said, "If legal procedures proceed, we will prepare thoroughly so that the police position can be accepted in court," and emphasized, "We will cooperate with the Seoul Metropolitan Government to ensure that rallies are not held due to court injunction approvals like last time (Liberation Day rally)."

Commissioner Kim reiterated the firm intention to respond strictly, stating, "We plan to thoroughly prepare and block illegal assemblies from occurring under any circumstances."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.