SEOUL, Oct 15 — South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok today urged firm action against any behaviour or activities that promote hate or discrimination toward foreign tourists ahead of this month’s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, Yonhap News Agency reported.
SEOUL, Oct 15 — South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok today urged firm action against any behaviour or activities that promote hate or discrimination toward foreign tourists ahead of this month’s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, Yonhap News Agency reported.
Speaking at a public safety meeting attended by key ministers, including Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and Interior Minister Yun Ho-jung, Kim made the call as anti-China rallies continued to take place across Seoul.
“The government views the APEC summit not merely as a diplomatic event but as an opportunity to showcase the Republic of Korea’s restored national dignity,” he said, referring to the summit scheduled for October 31 and November 1 in Gyeongju.
“At such a crucial time, hate rallies targeting foreigners are still being held in some areas. These self-defeating actions are deeply troubling, as they not only create unease among foreign visitors but also severely affect local small businesses,” he added.
While acknowledging the importance of free speech, Kim stressed that it must be exercised responsibly and without infringing on the rights or safety of others.
“Discriminatory acts and derogatory remarks against foreigners must be completely eliminated, as they undermine the Republic of Korea’s dignity and global reputation,” he said.
Kim also directed all ministries to take strict, lawful action against any behaviour inciting hatred or discrimination toward foreign tourists, especially when such acts harm the livelihoods of local small merchants. — Yonhap via Bernama
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