This civil disturbance risk advisory assesses the planned protests by the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) across South Korea on 16 and 19 July 2025. The report is structured to support continuity planning, mobility readiness, and operational risk mitigation for businesses and agencies operating in major Korean cities.
What is Risk Analysis in the Context of Civil Disturbances?
Civil disturbance risk assessments examine how organized protests or labor actions can disrupt transport, operations, supply chains, and public safety. These evaluations support proactive response and continuity planning—especially in urban and political hubs like Seoul, Busan, and Incheon. This report focuses on likely impacts, escalation scenarios, and preventive actions to protect people and infrastructure.
Executive Summary: Moderate to High Risk Level
- Date of Incidents: 16 and 19 July 2025
- Location: Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Gwangju, Ulsan, Suwon, Changwon, Jeju, Daegu, and other cities
- Risk Category: Civil Disturbance
- Severity Score: 3/5
- Confidence Level: 88%
A series of protests by the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) is expected to cause widespread disruptions in central Seoul and other major South Korean cities. Historical precedents suggest heavy traffic, delays in public transport, and potential disruption to business continuity. Protests are typically non-violent but may involve minor clashes with police and significant road blockages. Cities most at risk include Seoul, Busan, Incheon, and Gwangju.
Known Hotspots and Sensitive Areas
- Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul City Hall, National Assembly (Yeouido), Presidential Office (Yongsan)
- Major roads: Sejong-daero, Jong-ro, Euljiro, and Yeouido express corridors
- Subway stations: City Hall, Gwanghwamun, Jonggak, National Assembly Station
- High-security zones: U.S. Embassy, Central Government Complex, major labor offices
Impact on Transportation and Services
- Road Access: Major routes through central Seoul and other city downtown areas will be closed or congested. Delivery and commuting will be impacted.
- Public Transport: Bus diversions, metro exit closures, and station crowding are expected. Particularly impacted are routes intersecting protest zones.
- Business Operations: In-person activities and last-mile logistics will be delayed. Customer-facing services may be disrupted.
- Utility & Safety: Minimal expected damage to utilities or assets. Crowd safety remains a minor but manageable concern.
Recommended Actions
- Enable remote work for employees near key protest zones
- Activate contingency plans for deliveries and customer support
- Maintain real-time updates to all employees regarding mobility
- Reinforce on-ground security for offices in Seoul, Busan, Incheon, etc.
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 112
- Fire Department: 119
- Ambulance: 119
- Dasan Call Center (Seoul Govt): +82-2-120
- Korea National Police Agency Website: https://www.police.go.kr/
Final Thoughts
Labor actions in South Korea, especially by KCTU, are organized and impactful in terms of road closures, traffic disruption, and localized business interruptions. Although violence is rare, protests on 16 and 19 July may affect daily operations in Seoul and other cities. Businesses should prepare for staggered operations, client communication delays, and adaptive work strategies.
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