From Queer Festival to Teachers' Memorial: Series of Rallies Planned Across Seoul

A series of large-scale rallies and events are scheduled across downtown Seoul on Saturday, raising concerns about heavy traffic congestion and inconvenience for residents.

Beginning at 11 a.m. on June 14, the Seoul Queer Culture Festival will take place around Namdaemun-ro in Jung-gu. Starting at 4 p.m., participants will march from Jonggak Station, passing through Myeongdong Cathedral and Seoul Plaza, and ending at Euljiro 1-ga Station. The festivities will continue until 7 p.m. with various booths and performances.

Meanwhile, a conservative Christian group called "Holy Breakwater" has announced a counter-protest. They plan to rally in front of the Seoul Metropolitan Council at 1 p.m., followed by a march toward Sungnyemun at 4 p.m.

At 2 p.m. the same day, several teachers' organizations—including the Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union, the Korean Federation of Teachers' Associations, and the Federation of Teachers' Unions—will gather in front of the Government Complex Seoul in Jongno. The rally is being held to commemorate a middle school teacher from Jeju who reportedly died by suicide after enduring repeated complaints from parents, a tragedy that has stirred national outcry.

Additionally, a demonstration condemning Israel's invasion of Gaza is scheduled near Cheonggyecheon, while in front of the presidential office in Yongsan, another event will be held in remembrance of Kim Chung-hyun, a worker who died in an accident at the Taean Thermal Power Plant.

The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency anticipates widespread traffic disruptions due to the rallies and will deploy 310 traffic officers to manage the situation, including the implementation of detours and flexible lane operations.

A police spokesperson advised, "Major roads in the downtown and Seocho areas are expected to experience significant delays. We urge citizens to use the subway when possible, and for those who must drive, please check traffic updates in advance."

Photo=Yonhap News

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