Park Hong-geun Urges Disability Rights Group to Halt Commuter Protests

Park Hong-geun, the Minister of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, strongly urged the National Solidarity for the Elimination of Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Jeonjangyeon) to stop protests that repeatedly disrupt the daily commutes of citizens.

In a Facebook post on August 19, Park stated, "While the demand for the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities should be respected, it must not infringe upon the rights of non-disabled individuals or the laws of the state." He emphasized that the mobility rights of persons with disabilities and the daily lives of all citizens must be guaranteed together.

Previously, Jeonjangyeon announced plans to conduct daily subway protests during rush hour until the Ministry of Economy and Finance commits to including a budget for disability rights in the 2027 government budget proposal. However, the subway protest scheduled for that day was reportedly canceled.

Park explained that support for disabled taxi services was transferred to local governments in 2005, but to strengthen the national responsibility for the mobility rights of persons with disabilities, related laws have been amended to allow the government to provide annual support for vehicle purchase and operating costs.

He further emphasized that budget preparation for disability-related issues and protests are separate matters. "Government budgets are not subject to negotiation based on the intensity of protests or demonstrations," he said, adding that necessary policies and budgets for persons with disabilities will be responsibly reviewed based on their needs, the feasibility of projects, and financial principles.

He concluded by stating, "Just as the rights of persons with disabilities must be protected, it is also the government's principle and duty to safeguard the daily lives of all citizens." He noted that subway and bus protests that significantly inconvenience busy commuters will no longer receive support and urged Jeonjangyeon to firmly express their commitment to respecting the law and not infringing upon citizens' daily lives.