[Asia Economy (Suwon) = Reporter Lee Young-gyu] Lee Jae-myung, Governor of Gyeonggi Province, appealed to refrain from holding gatherings on National Foundation Day, October 3.
On the 22nd, Governor Lee stated on Facebook, "In a democratic country, freedom of expression, including the freedom of assembly, must be guaranteed to the fullest extent," adding, "However, it should not threaten someone's life or cause social disorder," setting a clear standard.
He continued, "At this time, when assemblies are inevitably restricted to prevent the spread of COVID-19 during this crisis, large-scale gatherings should be refrained from," and argued, "In fact, many local infections occurred linked to the August 15 gatherings and the Sarang Jeil Church meetings, and considering various circumstances and analyses, it is reasonable to see the recent second wave of infections as resulting from Sarang Jeil Church and the August 15 gatherings."
Governor Lee particularly pointed out, "The purpose of assemblies and demonstrations should be to persuade the public, not to vent anger," and criticized, "Assemblies and demonstrations that harm the public are more likely to isolate themselves rather than be persuasive, which does not help achieve the purpose of the assembly or demonstration."
Furthermore, he appealed, "For the well-being of the community, or at least for yourself and your family, please refrain from holding gatherings on National Foundation Day."
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