Protesters block stadium access, harass staff and journalists in Seoul

A week-long protest blocking access to Seoul's Olympic Park Handball Stadium has descended into chaos, with protesters preventing staff from entering their workplaces and harassing journalists.

The stadium, used as a vote counting center for the June 3 local elections, has been occupied by protesters for seven days. On the morning of June 11, employees of sports organizations housed in the stadium attempted to hold a press conference to appeal for access to their offices. However, over 100 protesters gathered, shouting insults and blocking their path.

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We just want to enter our workplace and protect our livelihoods. Why are we called communists and subjected to physical blockades?

"We just want to enter our workplace and protect our livelihoods," said an official from the Korea Judo Association. "Why are we called communists and subjected to physical blockades?" The press conference was eventually moved to another building nearby. Protesters also disrupted the event by cutting cables to the microphone and amplifier.

Criticism has been leveled against the police for their passive response. "The police should intervene when YouTubers incite crowds and profit from broadcasting the situation," argued one sports official. Another stated that if the blockade continues, their organizations may have to close down. Journalists from MBC and YTN also reported facing threats, including accusations of receiving money from North Korea and being asked if they intended to send their children to study there. Some protesters even pursued a journalist who tried to move away, creating a dangerous situation.

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The police should intervene when YouTubers incite crowds and profit from broadcasting the situation.