🚨 Korea's Highest Police Alert: Security Measures for Impeachment Ruling

Today Korean Social News | 2025.04.04

📌 'Emergency Level A' Issued Around Constitutional Court, Zero Tolerance Response to Illegal Activities

💬 An 'Emergency Level A' has been issued around the Constitutional Court, and police are maintaining the highest level of alert. The area within 150 meters of the Constitutional Court has been completely controlled with police buses and barricades, and assemblies within this area have been entirely prohibited. The police plan to strictly respond to illegal activities with a zero-tolerance principle. Tomorrow, on the ruling day, around 14,000 police officers are expected to be mobilized nationwide.

Summary

• Emergency Level A is the highest level of police alert status, a measure to prepare for potential risks at important facilities or events.
• Police emergency duty is divided into four levels: A, B, C, and D, with Level A being the highest level where 100% of available personnel are mobilized.
• During Emergency Level A, police deploy all available resources for order maintenance, including thorough prior information gathering, field control, and rapid response system establishment.

1️⃣ Definition

Emergency Level A refers to the highest level of emergency duty stages issued by the police, a state of alert where police forces are maximally mobilized to respond to national important events or serious crisis situations. Simply put, it is a state where police deploy all available personnel and equipment to strengthen security and vigilance for specific situations or areas to the highest degree.

Police emergency duty is classified according to the level of urgency into Level A (1st grade), Level B (2nd grade), Level C (3rd grade), and Level D (4th grade), with Emergency Level A being the highest stage, meaning 100% of the total police force is mobilized.

💡 Why is it important?

• Emergency Level A is a measure to prioritize the safety of important national facilities or events.
• It is an essential response system for maintaining order and preventing illegal activities in large-scale assembly or demonstration situations.
• It plays a role in preventing confusion and maintaining stability in matters with large social repercussions, such as Constitutional Court rulings.

2️⃣ Background and Operation of Emergency Level A

📕 Legal Basis and Issuance System of Emergency Level A

• Emergency Level A is issued according to clear legal grounds. Emergency Level A is issued based on the Police Officer Duty Execution Act, Police Duty Rules, and Police Emergency Duty Rules. The subject of emergency duty issuance varies depending on the scope and nature of the situation. First, nationwide emergency duty is issued by the Commissioner General of the National Police Agency. The Commissioner General can order a nationwide Emergency Level A for national important events, nationwide disaster situations, or large-scale demonstrations. Second, regional emergency duty is issued by the Commissioner of the Regional Police Agency. In cases of major incidents occurring in specific regions or regional events, the Regional Police Agency Commissioner can issue an Emergency Level A for the jurisdiction. Third, emergency duty for specific matters is also possible. Emergency Level A can be issued for a limited scope for facilities or individuals requiring special protection. For example, Emergency Level A is often issued limited to the vicinity of the Constitutional Court on days when there are Constitutional Court decisions. When Emergency Level A is issued, a clear command system and reporting system within the police organization are activated, and all personnel become mobilization targets.

• Emergency Level A is part of a staged crisis response system. The police emergency duty system is classified in stages according to the seriousness and risk level of the situation. First, Level A (1st grade) emergency duty is the highest level of alert status, with 100% of available police force mobilized. It is issued for major national incidents, large-scale assemblies and demonstrations, terrorist threats, and major international events. Police officers have all leaves and holidays canceled and enter a 24-hour standby state. Second, Level B (2nd grade) emergency duty is a stage where about 75% of available police force is mobilized. It is issued when large-scale assemblies are expected or there are important events, and while some leave is allowed, most police forces maintain a standby state. Third, Level C (3rd grade) emergency duty is a stage where about 50% of available police force is mobilized. It is issued for medium-scale assemblies or events, disaster situations, etc. Fourth, Level D (4th grade) emergency duty is the lowest level of emergency duty where about 25% of available police force is mobilized. It is issued in situations requiring routine vigilance. Through this staged system, response capabilities can be flexibly adjusted according to changes in the situation.

📕 Police Response System During Emergency Level A

• During Emergency Level A, police implement systematic field management. When Emergency Level A is issued, police activate a systematic field management system. First, they establish a field command system. A command post is set up on site, and a clear command system is established centered on the Commissioner General of the National Police Agency or the Commissioner of the Regional Police Agency. Police forces are organized into companies, platoons, and squads to move organically. Second, they operate a zone-by-zone management system. The core protection area and surrounding area are divided into several stages for management, with dedicated units and commanders assigned to each zone. Third, they control traffic and manage access. Roads around important facilities are controlled, and access is managed to be possible only through pre-designated checkpoints. Fourth, they collect information and assess situations. The situation is continuously monitored using field information officers, CCTV, drones, etc., and information is analyzed in real-time to adjust the response direction. Fifth, they establish a cooperation system with related agencies. A close cooperation system is established with related agencies such as fire, medical, and local governments to prepare for various situations.

• During Emergency Level A, police execute staged response strategies. In Emergency Level A situations, police move according to pre-planned staged response strategies. First is the preparation stage. Through information collection and analysis, risk factors are identified, and personnel and equipment are optimally deployed. Detailed implementation plans such as traffic control plans and contingency plans are established. Second is the field control stage. Security is strengthened for major facilities and individuals, and control lines are installed to restrict access. Sufficient forces are deployed in areas with high possibility of illegal activities to take preventive measures. Third is the situation response stage. Rapid responses are made to illegal acts or unexpected situations, and measures are taken to prevent the spread of the situation. Mobile units are operated that can quickly deploy forces from adjacent areas if necessary. Fourth is the post-management stage. Even after the situation ends, vigilance is maintained for a certain period to prepare for additional situations. Investigation and processing of incidents that occurred are carried out, and evaluation and analysis of the entire response process are conducted. The goal is to effectively manage the situation with minimal physical confrontation through these systematic response strategies.

Major Measures Taken by Police During Emergency Level A

1. Personnel Mobilization: 100% mobilization of total police force, cancellation of leave, 24-hour emergency standby
2. Equipment Deployment: Total mobilization of riot control equipment such as police buses, shields, helmets, and communication equipment
3. Zone Control: Installation of control lines around core protection targets, restricted access, operation of checkpoints
4. Traffic Management: Control of major roads, establishment of detours, implementation of measures to minimize traffic congestion
5. Information Activities: Deployment of field information officers, enhanced CCTV surveillance, real-time information collection and analysis
6. Situation Room Operation: 24-hour field situation room operation, real-time situation assessment and command
7. Cooperation with Related Agencies: Establishment of emergency contact network and cooperation system with fire, medical, local governments, etc.
8. Special Unit Standby: Standby of special forces for special situations such as terrorist response and hostage rescue
9. Media Response: Support for media coverage and establishment of official briefing system
10. Protection of Surrounding Facilities: Protective measures for surrounding facilities such as important facilities, shops, and residential areas

3️⃣ Social Impact and Issues of Emergency Level A

✅ Emergency Level A and Citizen Safety

• Emergency Level A is an essential measure to ensure citizen safety. The most basic purpose of Emergency Level A is to ensure citizen safety. First, it has the effect of controlling large crowds and preventing safety accidents. When large crowds gather around important events or facilities, systematic control can prevent crushing accidents or safety accidents due to congestion. Second, it has the effect of preventing illegal activities and violent incidents. Through sufficient police deployment, illegal demonstrations or violent clashes can be deterred in advance, and if they occur, their spread can be prevented by responding quickly. Third, it has a deterrent effect against terrorism and major crimes. When there are important events or rulings of social importance, the likelihood of becoming targets for terrorism or major crimes increases, so strong preventive measures are necessary. Fourth, it has the effect of establishing a rapid response system for emergency situations. Through the standby of medical staff and firefighting personnel, and securing emergency routes, a system can be established to respond quickly in case of emergency situations. Fifth, it has the effect of protecting the daily lives of ordinary citizens. It protects shops, residential areas, and public facilities around important events, ensuring that the daily lives of ordinary citizens are not excessively disturbed.

• There are behavioral guidelines citizens should follow during Emergency Level A. Citizens who are in or planning to visit areas where Emergency Level A is issued need to be aware of the following behavioral guidelines. First, check official information. Verify accurate information about control zones, control times, detours, etc. in advance through official announcements from the police and local governments. Second, refrain from entering control zones. Avoid visiting zones where Emergency Level A is issued unless there is a special reason, and if unavoidable, move with sufficient time to spare. Third, carry identification. Always carry identification as there may be identity verification by the police when entering control zones. Fourth, comply with police instructions. Follow the instructions and guidance of police officers on site, and do not arbitrarily cross control lines or enter restricted areas without permission. Fifth, consider using public transportation. As vehicle use may be restricted due to traffic control, use public transportation if possible. Sixth, check emergency contact systems. Check emergency contact methods with family or acquaintances in advance, and note contact information if necessary. Seventh, know how to handle emergency situations. Be aware of how to seek help (such as calling 112, 119) when injured or in danger in crowded situations.

✅ Emergency Level A and Assembly/Demonstration Rights

• A balance is needed between Emergency Level A and freedom of assembly/demonstration. When Emergency Level A is issued, assemblies and demonstrations within specific zones may often be restricted, which may conflict with the freedom of assembly and demonstration guaranteed by the Constitution. First, freedom of assembly and demonstration is a basic right. Article 21 of the Constitution guarantees all citizens the freedom of assembly and association, which is an important basic right that forms the foundation of a democratic society. Second, at the same time, freedom of assembly and demonstration is not absolute. According to Article 37, Paragraph 2 of the Constitution, it can be restricted by law when necessary for national security, maintaining order, or public welfare. Third, the Assembly and Demonstration Act specifies prohibited zones for assemblies and reasons for restriction. Assemblies around major facilities such as diplomatic institutions, courts, and the National Assembly building may be restricted, and assemblies that directly threaten public peace and order may be prohibited. Fourth, the principle of proportionality in restricting assemblies during Emergency Level A is important. The purpose, temporal and spatial scope of the restriction, and provision of alternative means must be reasonable and proportional. Fifth, a judicial control mechanism operates. Legal remedies such as administrative appeals, administrative litigation, and constitutional complaints exist for measures prohibiting or restricting assemblies, and courts review the constitutionality and legality of restrictive measures.

• Freedom of expression should be maximally guaranteed even in Emergency Level A situations. Even if Emergency Level A is issued, freedom of expression, which is the foundation of a democratic society, should be guaranteed as much as possible. First, the principle of providing alternative assembly locations. Even if assemblies are prohibited in certain zones, alternative assembly locations should be provided as close as possible to ensure opportunities for expressing opinions. Second, the principle of minimizing temporal restrictions. Assembly restrictions due to Emergency Level A should be maintained only for the minimum necessary time and should be promptly lifted when the situation stabilizes. Third, the principle of distinguishing between peaceful assemblies and illegal demonstrations. Rather than prohibiting all assemblies uniformly, peaceful assemblies and violent illegal demonstrations should be clearly distinguished. Fourth, the principle of guaranteeing media access rights. The access rights of the media to cover and report on the situation should be guaranteed as much as possible, and separate press lines should be provided for this purpose. Fifth, the principle of guaranteeing online freedom of expression. Even if physical assemblies are restricted, expression of opinions through online means should be maximally guaranteed. Through these principles, it is important in a democratic society to balance public safety and freedom of expression.

✅ Issues in Police Force Operation During Emergency Level A

• There are several issues in police force operation during Emergency Level A. Various issues and challenges arise in the process of operating large-scale police forces in Emergency Level A situations. First, the issue of balance between excessive response and appropriate response. Deploying too many police forces can escalate unnecessary tension and conflict, while insufficient response risks failing to control the situation. Second, the issue of minimizing physical confrontation. It is important to manage situations in a non-violent manner, and even when unavoidable, only minimal physical force should be used. Third, the issue of managing police officers' fatigue and stress. Long hours of emergency duty can impair police officers' judgment and response capabilities, so appropriate shifts and rest periods should be guaranteed. Fourth, the issue of minimizing general security gaps. When large-scale police forces are concentrated in specific areas, general security activities in other areas may be weakened, requiring countermeasures. Fifth, the issue of balance between information collection and privacy protection. While information collection is necessary for effective situation management, citizens' privacy rights should not be excessively infringed in the process.

• Strengthening police capacity for Emergency Level A response is necessary. Continuous capacity building is necessary for effective police response in Emergency Level A situations. First, strengthening systematic education and training. Professional education and practical training on large-scale assembly management, crisis situation response, human rights protection, etc. should be conducted regularly. Second, introduction of advanced equipment and technology. Advanced technologies such as drones, body cameras, and mobile command systems should be utilized to enable efficient situation management and evidence collection. Third, improving psychological response capabilities. Psychological capacity to respond calmly and communicate effectively with citizens even in high-pressure situations is important. Fourth, improving internal communication systems within the police. A system for smooth communication between field police officers and command, and information sharing between departments is necessary. Fifth, establishing a post-evaluation and improvement system. After Emergency Level A ends, a system should be established to identify and improve problems through thorough evaluation and analysis of the response process. Through such continuous capacity building, police response that balances human rights and safety will be possible even in Emergency Level A situations.

4️⃣ Related Terms Explanation

🔎 Police Emergency Duty

• Police emergency duty is the police's emergency standby system for special situations.
• Police emergency duty refers to an emergency standby system issued by the police when special situations occur or are expected, such as national important events, large-scale assemblies and demonstrations, disasters, or terrorist threats. The purpose of police emergency duty is to respond quickly to sudden incidents, mobilize sufficient police forces to maintain order, and protect the lives and property of citizens. Emergency duty is classified into four levels according to the seriousness of the situation: Level A (1st grade), Level B (2nd grade), Level C (3rd grade), and Level D (4th grade). Level A is the highest level of alert status with 100% of available police force mobilized, Level B with 75%, Level C with 50%, and Level D with 25%. When emergency duty is issued, leaves and holidays are restricted, officers are on emergency standby at designated locations, and duties are performed according to pre-established plans. Also, cooperation systems with related agencies are activated, special equipment and materials are prepared, and command systems and reporting systems are strengthened. Police emergency duty is issued and lifted according to strict procedures and criteria in accordance with the Police Officer Duty Execution Act and related regulations, and internal and external control mechanisms are in place to prevent abuse.

🔎 Control Line

• A control line is a physical or psychological boundary line installed to restrict access to a specific area.
• A control line refers to a boundary line installed by the police to restrict general public access and maintain order at important facilities, event venues, crime scenes, etc. Control lines are largely divided into two types. First, physical control lines are installed by setting up actual barriers such as police vehicles, barricades, fences, or ropes to physically block access. These are mainly installed in high-importance core protection zones or areas where large crowds are expected. Second, psychological control lines form a psychological boundary by having police officers stand in a line or installing control line tape. These are mainly used in situations where there is low risk of immediate physical confrontation. Control lines can be composed of several stages depending on the purpose of installation and the situation. For example, a strong physical control line for the core protection target may be at the innermost level, a secondary control line for the buffer zone may be outside that, and a tertiary control line for general traffic control may be at the outermost level. The installation and operation of control lines are based on relevant regulations such as the Police Officer Duty Execution Act and the Assembly and Demonstration Act, and must be carried out justly within the minimum scope necessary to achieve the purpose. Acts of unauthorized crossing of control lines may constitute obstruction of police officer duty execution and may be subject to legal sanctions depending on the situation.

🔎 Zero Tolerance Principle

• The zero tolerance principle is a law enforcement policy that responds strictly, without exception, to illegal activities.
• The zero tolerance principle refers to a law enforcement policy of taking legal measures without exception even for minor illegal activities. This concept emerged in the United States in the 1980s along with the "broken windows theory" and is based on the philosophy that greater crimes can be prevented by strictly cracking down on even small disorders and illegal activities. The characteristics of the zero tolerance principle are as follows. First, application of law without exception. Legal measures are taken consistently for all violations, without tolerance or exception. Second, immediate response. If illegal activities are confirmed, measures such as sanctions or arrests are taken without delay. Third, strict punishment. Maximum legal sanctions are imposed as much as possible to convey a strong warning message against illegal activities. When police apply the zero tolerance principle in Emergency Level A situations, immediate arrests and strong legal measures are taken for control line violations, illegal assemblies, assault on police, etc. While this can be effective in preventing the deterioration of situations early and maintaining order, there are also concerns about excessive use of police force or infringement of basic rights, requiring careful application. In a democratic society, the zero tolerance principle has meaning in terms of strict application of the rule of law, but it must be accompanied by reasonable judgment considering specific situations and proportionality.

5️⃣ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What should I do if I absolutely need to go to an area where Emergency Level A has been issued?

A: If you inevitably need to visit an area where Emergency Level A has been issued, please note the following. First, check accurate information in advance. Gather information about the scope of control zones, control times, detours, etc. through official channels like the National Police Agency or local government. Second, always carry identification. Official identification such as a resident registration card or driver's license should be carried as identity verification may take place when entering control zones. Third, prepare materials that can prove your purpose of visit. If you have materials like workplace access cards, medical appointment confirmations, or residence verification documents that can prove why you need to visit the area, have them ready to present. Fourth, consider using public transportation. As vehicle traffic may be restricted, using public transportation is advisable if possible. Fifth, allow plenty of time for travel. Travel time may be significantly longer than usual due to checkpoints and controls, so plan generously. Sixth, follow police instructions. Follow the guidance and instructions of police officers on site, and avoid unnecessary friction or protests. Seventh, pay attention to your surroundings. Be attentive to your environment in preparation for sudden changes in the situation, and move quickly to a safe place if a dangerous situation arises.

Q: What legal sanctions can I face if I disobey police control during Emergency Level A?

A: If you disobey legitimate police control during an Emergency Level A situation, you may face various legal sanctions. First, you may be charged with obstruction of police officer duty execution. If you obstruct the legitimate duty execution of a police officer, you may be punished by imprisonment for up to 5 years or a fine of up to 10 million won according to Article 136 of the Criminal Act. Second, you may be punished for violating the Assembly and Demonstration Act. If you force an assembly or demonstration in a prohibited zone, you may be punished by imprisonment for up to 2 years or a fine of up to 2 million won. Third, you may be charged with general obstruction of traffic. If you illegally occupy roads or obstruct traffic, you may be punished by imprisonment for up to 10 years or a fine of up to 15 million won according to Article 185 of the Criminal Act. Fourth, you may be charged with obstruction of public duty execution. If you obstruct the duty execution of a public official through violence or intimidation, you may be punished by imprisonment for up to 5 years or a fine of up to 10 million won according to Article 136 of the Criminal Act. Fifth, you may be immediately arrested. You may be arrested as a flagrant offender and detained, which may remain as a criminal record. Sixth, civil liability for damages may arise. You may bear civil liability for damages for property damage or personal injury caused by disobedience to control. To avoid these legal sanctions, it is important to cooperate with legitimate police instructions and controls in Emergency Level A situations.

Q: What impact does Emergency Level A have on the basic rights of ordinary citizens?

A: Emergency Level A is a necessary measure for public safety, but it can have certain impacts on the basic rights of ordinary citizens. First, there are restrictions on freedom of movement. Access to specific zones may be controlled, and free movement may be restricted due to the installation of checkpoints. Second, freedom of assembly and demonstration may be restricted. Assemblies or demonstrations around protection targets may be prohibited or restricted, affecting freedom of expression. Third, there may be impacts on personal information and privacy. Personal information may be collected during checkpoints and identity verification processes, and surveillance may be enhanced through CCTV, etc. Fourth, daily economic activities may be disrupted. Businesses or workplaces in control zones may have restricted operations or decreased visitors. However, these basic rights restrictions must be carried out under several principles. First, there must be a legal basis. Restrictions on basic rights must be based on law according to Article 37, Paragraph 2 of the Constitution. Second, the principle of proportionality must be applied. There must be an appropriate balance between the purpose and means of restriction, and excessive restrictions should be avoided. Third, it must be temporary and limited. Restrictions on basic rights should be limited to the minimum necessary time and space. Fourth, judicial control must be possible. Remedial means must be available for unjust restrictions. For Emergency Level A to gain legitimacy in a democratic society, the balance between public safety and basic rights protection must be carefully considered.

Q: How is police Emergency Level A different from military emergency orders?

A: Police Emergency Level A and military emergency orders have important differences in terms of purpose, legal basis, scope of application, authority, etc. First, there are differences in purpose and nature. Police Emergency Level A is an internal emergency duty system of the police for maintaining domestic security and protecting public order, whereas military emergency orders are military preparedness measures to respond to external threats or war crises. Second, there are differences in legal basis. Police Emergency Level A is based on the Police Officer Duty Execution Act, Police Emergency Duty Rules, etc., whereas military emergency orders are based on laws such as the National Mobilization Act, Martial Law Act, and Integrated Defense Act. Third, there are differences in issuing authority. Emergency Level A is issued by the Commissioner General of the National Police Agency or the Commissioner of the Regional Police Agency, whereas military emergency orders are issued by order of the President or the Minister of National Defense. Fourth, there are differences in authority and influence. Emergency Level A is limited to police force mobilization and control of specific zones, whereas military emergency orders can include broader authority such as military operations, reserve forces mobilization, and civilian control. Fifth, there are differences in impact on civilian life. Emergency Level A mainly involves temporary control limited to specific areas, whereas military emergency orders can impose stronger restrictions on a nationwide scale. Sixth, there are differences in democratic control. Emergency Level A is subject to control by general courts, whereas special legal systems may apply to military emergency orders such as martial law. The important point is that both systems must be implemented within the minimum necessary scope based on the Constitution and laws, and must be accompanied by democratic control and oversight.