No Large-Scale Gatherings in Downtown Seoul on Gaecheonjeol... Police "Thankful for Citizens' Cooperation"

Operation of 90 Checkpoints, Complete Blockade of City Center Entry
Vehicle Protest Concludes Without Major Clashes

On the morning of October 3rd, National Foundation Day, police buses lined up on the road in Gwanghwamun, Seoul, to block sudden rallies and protests. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-ju] On October 3rd, National Foundation Day, there was no large-scale gathering of conservative groups in downtown Seoul as had been feared.

The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency issued a statement on the 3rd, saying, "The National Foundation Day rally concluded without the large-scale gathering of people that was anticipated."

The police added, "To prevent a recurrence of the infectious disease risk situation like the one during the August 15th rally, we requested restraint from gathering and implemented measures such as checkpoints and vehicle detours. Thanks to the citizens' willingness to endure inconvenience and cooperate, the situation was safely resolved."

They continued, "We will continue to strictly respond according to laws and principles with a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal acts that threaten the lives and safety of the public."

On that day, the police formed a barricade with police buses along Sejong-daero from Gwanghwamun Square to Seoul City Hall and set up 90 checkpoints to completely block rally participants from entering the city center. Additionally, about 800 personnel, including 21 companies of riot police, traffic police, and local police, were mobilized to prepare for any emergencies.

Some conservative groups conducted a 'drive-through' style vehicle protest, but there were no significant clashes.

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