[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Chun-han] The Justice Party stated on the 5th that Seoul City's plan to install police bus barricades to completely block the Hangul Day rally is "a matter that requires caution as it could result in tacit approval of a police permit system for assemblies."
Spokesperson Cho Hye-min said in a commentary on the same day, "We understand that this was a second-best choice as a measure to prevent moments that could trigger crises due to COVID-19 in advance," but added, "We need to reconsider what the installation of barricades based on the principle of lockdown and prohibition, rather than gradual restrictions, ultimately means.".
Spokesperson Cho also said, "We hope the rally organizers will make every effort to strictly comply with quarantine guidelines, fully considering the public's concerns," emphasizing that "this is a matter related to the survival rights of the people."
Spokesperson Cho further stated, "At a time when the basic principles of democracy must not be taken for granted to be violated, the efforts of the organizers are also desperately needed," and added, "The current task is to somehow begin the conditions under which quarantine and the guarantee of freedom of assembly can go hand in hand."
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