Justice Minister Warns of Strict Response to Illegal Protester Actions

South Korea's Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon has vowed strict action against illegal activities by some participants in ongoing protests. Demonstrations against a shortage of ballot papers during the June 3 local elections have persisted for 12 days around the Olympic Gymnastics Arena in Seoul's Olympic Park. Han stated on Facebook that while the right to express opinions and assemble is fundamental and respected, it does not extend to threatening, mocking, or unlawfully detaining individuals. He stressed that South Korea resolves issues through reason and law, not violence. The minister highlighted that actions such as arbitrary detentions, threats against citizens, journalists, and officials, and baseless accusations targeting specific nationalities constitute clear illegal acts that require thorough investigation and accountability. He specifically condemned the 'witch hunt' against Chinese individuals and interference with official duties occurring at the Olympic Park.

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The public has the right to express their opinions, and that right must be respected. However, the freedom of expression and assembly does not grant the right to threaten or mock others, conduct private inspections, or impose sanctions. This is because South Korea is a civilized rule of law country that resolves problems with reason and rationality, not violence.