Photo: Yonhap News
Several conservative and progressive civic groups are scheduled to hold large-scale rallies across Seoul on Saturday, National Liberation Day.
According to organizers, over 42,000 people are expected to come together for seven separate gatherings that will affect areas around Sajik Park, Eulji-ro and Anguk Station in the Jongno District, as well areas in Yeouido and around Seocho Station in southern Seoul.
These planned events have raised fears over the further spread of the coronavirus as it is unlikely proper preventative measures will be enforced such as the wearing of masks and social distancing.
Expressing concern, a police official said on Tuesday that the city government has the authority to ban such rallies but has yet to do so.
The Seoul city government said its officials and police will closely monitory whether rally participants observe quarantine rules, including compiling participant lists and restraints on slogan shouting and singing.
Large gatherings in public squares in the city center, including Seoul Plaza and Gwanghwamun Square, are banned under the city's anti-coronavirus measures, but few restrictions have been placed on rallies held elsewhere.
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