Police: "Cannot forcibly disperse Gwanghwamun rally... Punishment is possible"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-gi] As Seoul city has decided to ban gatherings around Gwanghwamun to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), the police stated that if the Gwanghwamun gatherings are forcibly held, participants could be subject to punishment. However, they also expressed that forcibly dispersing large-scale gatherings in Gwanghwamun is not possible.

A Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency official said on the 21st regarding the large-scale gatherings scheduled for the weekend, "Since these gatherings are not prohibited under the Assembly and Demonstration Act, the police cannot directly proceed with dispersal procedures," but added, "(If there is non-compliance with the assembly ban notice from Seoul city officials) post-event judicial action is possible."

According to Article 49 of the Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Act, the Minister of Health and Welfare or local government heads can restrict gatherings to prevent infectious diseases. Violating the ban can result in a fine of up to 3 million won. A police official explained, "Since the gatherings are prohibited under the Infectious Disease Prevention Act, organizing and attending them itself is a crime," and further stated, "Under the Police Duties Act, on-site intervention is only possible in urgent cases that threaten physical safety or life, so actions such as blocking or prohibiting assembled people cannot be taken."

Meanwhile, Seoul city is reportedly planning to set up signs indicating the ban on gatherings and provide administrative guidance to stop the gatherings. The police plan to deploy officers at the gathering sites to support administrative officials by arresting those who use physical violence against them during administrative guidance.

Previously, the 범투본 led by Pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon, chairman of the Christian Council of Korea, announced plans to hold gatherings in front of the Kyobo Building in Gwanghwamun at 12 noon on the 22nd and 11 a.m. on the 23rd. Groups such as the Taegeukgi Revolution National Movement Headquarters are reportedly still considering whether to hold gatherings.