Prime Minister Kim Says He Will Respond Firmly to Illegal Acts at Jamsil Blockade Protest

[Financial News] Prime Minister Kim Min-seok said on the 16th that the government would respond firmly to the Jamsil blockade protest, stating, "The government will respond decisively to such illegal acts in order to make an example of them."
At the 26th State Council meeting and the 23rd Emergency Economic Headquarters Meeting held that day at Government Complex Seoul, Kim said, "Police should take immediate action at the scene against illegal actors in accordance with the law and principles, and I ask that they thoroughly track even suspected illegal acts through evidence collection and hold those responsible strictly accountable."
Kim said, "The government listens humbly to the public's legitimate concerns over violations of voting rights and respects them. However, some participants using this situation as a pretext to infringe on the rights of others can never be justified."
In particular, Kim said, "This has nothing to do with the purpose of the protest, and privately restricting access for people who have the right to enter is a serious illegal act that can never be tolerated under any circumstances. No wonder the president of the Korea Sports Council requested the deployment of public power."
Kim said, "Why should I be searched when I am going to my own office? If fencers are prevented from taking out their fencing swords, then what on earth are they supposed to do? The vote counting at the scene is already over. There is no way to explain on what right or for what reason legitimate passage is being blocked."
He added, "I ask that all necessary protective measures be taken so that sports figures can enter safely and focus on their work. Along with protecting the public's voting rights, democratic order must also be respected and protected. The government holds this firm position."

syj@fnnews.com Seo Young-joon Reporter