Protesters' blockade of sports organizations' offices is unacceptable, government must act

Protesters have effectively sealed off access to sports organizations' offices located within the Olympic Park handball gymnasium for 12 consecutive days, leading to escalating disruptions and significant damage. The demonstrators, who began their protest following issues with ballot paper shortages during the June 3 local elections, are occupying the site and preventing entry.

On May 16, attempts by police and officials from the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee (KSOC) to access the offices were blocked by the protesters. A mediation proposal, suggesting a phased entry for two representatives per sports organization accompanied by a ruling party lawmaker and live broadcast, was initially agreed upon by many protesters. However, one individual's resistance at the gate ultimately prevented the plan from being implemented. Following this, some participants reportedly sealed the gates with tape and rope, vowing to protect what they claim are "evidence of election fraud" – the ballot boxes stored inside.

The prolonged blockade has paralyzed the operations of nine sports organizations, including those for billiards, handball, finswimming, and fencing. Approximately 79 staff members have been unable to access their offices, leading to a halt in work. Fencing athletes preparing for the Asian Championships had to personally procure equipment like swords and shoes, and other organizations are facing difficulties with payroll, responding to applicants, and organizing training sessions.

While the right to protest and demand reforms from the election commission is acknowledged, the article strongly condemns the protesters' increasingly radical actions. These include conducting private searches on young national handball team athletes, assaulting journalists, and verbally abusing police officers. The article argues that such illegal activities cannot be justified under the guise of protesting election irregularities.

In response to the escalating situation, Interior and Safety Minister Yun Ho-jung issued a public statement on May 16, declaring that "acts that undermine the rule of law in our society, such as private searches or occupation of facilities, cannot be justified for any reason." He vowed to "thoroughly pursue and hold strictly accountable" those whose actions threaten public life and safety. The article supports this stance, emphasizing that while freedom of expression must be protected, illegal acts that endanger others' freedom and safety must not be tolerated. It criticizes the police's previously passive approach and calls for decisive action to enforce the law and 단호하게 stop the illegal activities.