Wheelchair Chain Fixation · Citizens and Shouting… Subway Departure Delayed
The Korean Disability Network (전장연) staged a subway boarding protest on the morning commute again after about a year. Demanding the protection of the rights of people with disabilities, those attempting to board the train temporarily paralyzed the platform at Hyehwa Station on Seoul Subway Line 4, and some chained their wheelchairs to the train, causing a delay in train operations.
On the morning of the 21st, at 8:00 AM, the Korean Disability Network held its 62nd "I Will Ride the Subway on My Way to Work" protest at the Dongdaemun direction platform of Hyehwa Station, which is currently bypassing the station without stopping due to the protest's impact.
Seoul Transportation Corporation staff deployed at the scene attempted to prevent the protesters from boarding, but around 8:45 AM, some participants suddenly tried to board the train, turning the platform into chaos.
Participants shouted "Get out!" and engaged in tussles with police and corporation staff, leading to train doors not closing properly and departure delays.
"Demands Ignored, Protest Resumed"… Continuous Legislative Appeals
Particularly, some protesters prevented the train from departing by chaining their wheelchairs inside the train, leading to loud exchanges between the commuting citizens and the protesters. Given the severe inconvenience for citizens, the atmosphere at the scene was tense.
The boarding protest by the Korean Disability Network comes after about a year since April 8 of last year.
During this time, the Korean Disability Network has continued their "die-in" protests lying on the platform, demanding budget allocation and legislation for the rights of people with disabilities, but stated that they have resumed strong protests because "the government and National Assembly have not responded at all."
A representative from the Korean Disability Network stated, "This struggle is not just about transportation rights; it is a fight to guarantee the minimum standard of living as human beings," expressing their intention to continue the protests.
Image source: News1
