Protesters Block Seoul Arena for 11th Day, Halting Both Sports Offices and Ballot-Box Removal

The Korean Sport & Olympic Committee on June 15 demanded that authorities reopen access to nine national sports federations whose offices sit inside SK Olympic Handball Gymnasium in southern Seoul. Protesters have blocked entry to the arena for the past 11 days.

The demonstrations began after ballot shortages disrupted the June 3 local elections, and demonstrators have prevented election officials from removing ballot boxes while also barring federation employees from their workplaces.

Ryu Seung-min, president of the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee, spoke at a press conference in Seoul on Monday. He said the blockade had created massive financial losses and harmed support for athletes preparing for the Asian Games in September. "We'd like to ask for authorities to step in and help these sports organizations get just the bare essentials to resume their operations," Ryu said.

The Korea Underwater Association stated that the protests have disrupted its preparations for the finswimming world championships scheduled for next week in Incheon. The Korean Fencing Federation has been unable to deliver equipment to athletes competing in the Asian championships that began this week in India, forcing fencers to borrow swords.

Ryu said the committee respects the constitutional right to assembly but argued that no rights should infringe on others or disrupt public functions.

He added that sports administrators, athletes and coaches have no connection to the ballot-shortage dispute yet face the most severe damage. "We can no longer sit idly by as the dreams of our athletes continue to be ruined," Ryu said. " The committee is prepared to pursue any possible legal action, including criminal proceedings, against the protesters, Ryu stated.