Police Take Strict Measures at Labor Day Rally... Over 10,000 Officers Deployed on Site

Democratic Labor Union Rally with 110,000 Participants and Korean Confederation of Trade Unions Rally with 30,000 Participants Held
On-Site Arrests for Obstruction of Official Duties

The police announced on the 27th that they will guarantee the rallies held nationwide by the two major labor unions on Labor Day, May 1st, but will respond strictly to illegal activities.

On May 1st, International Workers' Day, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) is holding a global Labor Day rally on Sejong-daero in Seoul. The event, themed around labor rights without discrimination and securing quality jobs, took place simultaneously in 16 regions nationwide, including Seoul. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@

At 4 p.m. on the same day, the National Police Agency held a situation check meeting chaired by the Commissioner to receive reports on the preparations of city and provincial police agencies for the Labor Day rallies and to review response measures.

The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) reported to the police that it will hold rallies with more than 110,000 participants in major downtown areas nationwide, while the Federation of Korean Trade Unions (FKTU) reported a rally with 30,000 participants in Seoul.

Commissioner Yoon stated, "A large number of people are expected to attend this Labor Day rally, raising concerns about inconvenience to the general public and various unexpected situations. While the reported rallies and marches will be guaranteed, illegal activities must be strictly managed nationwide under uniform standards." The police plan to deploy and station about 12,000 officers nationwide, including temporarily formed units.

Commissioner Yoon added, "If illegal acts such as occupying the entire roadway or causing prolonged traffic congestion beyond the reported scope during the rally and march are forcibly carried out due to the large gathering, we will promptly proceed with dispersal procedures according to law and principles. If public officials are assaulted or official duties obstructed, we will promptly and strictly take legal action, including on-site arrests." He also explained that noise from the rallies will be strictly controlled.

Meanwhile, the police intend to actively guarantee the freedom of assembly and enforce the law strictly and fairly against illegal activities in accordance with law and principles.

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