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Update on anti-government protests in South Korea
The Lee Myoung Pak government unleashed a vicious police crackdown of anti-goverment candlelight vigils on June 28th and June 29th, as shown in the videos. The government has promised a hard line against protesters since it reached a meaningless, non-binding agreement with the U.S. in mid-June, which would limit some beef imports without addressing the movement's broader demands. People promoting an advertising boycott of the three right-wing newspapers have been investigated and threatened with criminal charges, and the two organizations promoting the demonstrations had their offices raided and computers confiscated by police.
On June 30 and July 1, Catholic and Buddhist groups forced the police to relent in their attacks and allow protesters back into Seoul City Hall Plaza by holding prayer vigils during the nightly protests. On July 1st, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions will hold a national strike in protest against the resumption of U.S.beef imports. The KCTU predicts that 200,000 workers will go out on strike nationwide, and plans to participate in the candlelight vigils through Saturday, July 5th. That day, July 5th, has been announced as another major demonstration. If you are in Seoul, come out on July 5th!
