Democratic Labor Federation’s General Strike Rally Expected to Cause Traffic Chaos in Seoul
Traffic congestion is anticipated in various parts of downtown Seoul today.
This is due to the nationwide strike rally and march announced by the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU).
It is expected that tens of thousands of people will fill the heart of Seoul, so those planning to go out this weekend should exercise particular caution.
According to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, a preliminary rally organized by KCTU-affiliated groups will begin at 11 a.m. in the area of Baekbeom-ro, Gongdeok-dong.
This large-scale gathering is reported to have a registered participation of 20,000 people. The main event is scheduled to take place from around 3 p.m. at the intersection of Namdaemun-ro and Jongno 1-ga, extending to the intersection of Euljiro 1-ga.
Purpose of the Rally and the Significance of the 'Yellow Envelope Law'
The KCTU is demanding the immediate amendment of the so-called 'Yellow Envelope Law' (Articles 2 and 3 of the Labor Union Act), which former President Yoon Suk-yeol previously vetoed, and the repeal of anti-labor policies.
Article 2 of the Labor Union Act defines employers and workers, and the amendment aims to allow workers to negotiate labor conditions directly with the principal 'employer.'
Additionally, the amendment of Article 3, which is the core of the Yellow Envelope Law, specifically clarifies that companies cannot claim damages from workers even if they incur losses due to strikes.
Participants of the rally are expected to march towards the Government Complex in Sajik-ro and the Sejong Hotel via Toegye-ro, which is likely to cause serious traffic congestion throughout downtown Seoul.
Given that this event coincides with peak times for weekend visitors and shoppers, traffic congestion seems inevitable.
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency has prepared measures to ensure vehicular traffic during the rally and march.
Their strategy is to maintain traffic flow between the north-south and east-west routes while minimizing citizen inconvenience. Approximately 230 traffic police will be deployed around the rally and march areas for variable lane operations and traffic management.
If you plan to visit downtown Seoul on Saturday, using the subway or public transportation would be a wise choice.
If you must use a vehicle, it is advisable to check traffic information in advance and prepare alternative routes.
Image source: On the afternoon of July 16, in front of the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, Yang Kyung-soo, chairman of the KCTU, and members shouted slogans at the "Immediate Amendment of Articles 2 and 3 of the Labor Union Act! Immediate Repeal of the Anti-Labor Policies of the Yoon Suk-yeol Regime! Securing Labor-Management Negotiations! KCTU General Strike Rally." 2025.7.16 / News1, KCTU Homepage Capture
