Prime Minister Jeong on Drive-Through Rally: "It's Okay If Legal Guidelines Are Followed... Will Actively Hold Accountable If Violated"

Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun is delivering a national address on special quarantine measures for the Chuseok holiday on the 27th at the Government Seoul Office in Jongno-gu, Seoul.
[Photo by Asia Economy]

[Asia Economy Reporter Han-ah Na] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun commented on the announcement of the Gaecheonjeol rally, stating, "If the court's guidelines are followed, the risk of COVID-19 transmission does not seem to be high," and added, "If the court guidelines are violated, the risk of COVID-19 transmission increases, and the government will have no choice but to actively block and disperse illegal rallies and hold those responsible accountable."

On the 1st, appearing on KBS1 Radio's 'Joo Jin-woo Live,' Prime Minister Chung was asked about the 'drive-thru' rally, "Will only 9 vehicles really participate?" He replied, "I am concerned, but I believe that if they do not limit it to 9 or fewer vehicles, they will face sanctions, so I trust they will comply."

He continued, "I believe the police authorities are preparing in advance for how to respond if the legal boundaries are crossed," and emphasized, "I earnestly ask everyone to strictly follow the court guidelines."

Earlier, on the 30th of last month, the court permitted the Gaecheonjeol drive-thru rally on the condition that 'no more than 9 vehicles are used.'

At that time, the court stated, "Prohibiting the rally entirely solely because there is a possibility that it may not proceed as reported infringes on the constitutionally guaranteed freedom of assembly and cannot be allowed."