Overview

• The Seoul Administrative Court suspended a police order barring derogatory chants at Freedom Univ's Oct. 3 rally after finding the restriction was issued outside the 48‑hour window required by law.
• Judges said the decision does not authorize hate speech and affirmed police powers to control crowds or disband rallies if a clear, direct threat of collective violence emerges.
• President Lee Jae Myung directed agencies to crack down on anti‑foreigner demonstrations and prepare special measures to eliminate racially discriminatory acts that he said damage national interests.
• Prime Minister Kim Min‑seok told the National Police Agency to use strong measures under relevant laws to protect residents, merchants and Chinese nationals in areas affected by the protests.
• The Chinese Embassy condemned the planned National Foundation Day rally and demanded assurances for Chinese visitors' safety as the new visa‑free entry program begins receiving arrivals.