Jinju: A cargo truck collided with a group of rallygoers in the southern city of Jinju on Monday, resulting in the death of one individual and injuries to two others, according to officials. The tragic incident occurred as the 2.5-ton vehicle struck participants near a logistics center at 10:32 a.m. The collision reportedly happened when people attempted to prevent the truck from leaving the area, as stated by police authorities.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the rally was organized by unionized cargo workers demanding joint negotiations with BGF Retail Co., the operator of the CU convenience store chain. The situation escalated hours after the initial collision when a union vehicle crashed into a police barricade near the rally site at 1:33 p.m., causing minor injuries to a police officer in his 20s. Police have since detained both the driver and a passenger of the union vehicle and are conducting an investigation into the incident.
Following the tragic events, tensions remained high with a stand-off between union members and police at the scene. The prime minister's office has extended its "deepest condolences" to the family of the deceased and has committed to a comprehensive investigation. "We will thoroughly investigate the exact circumstances of the incident and hold those responsible accountable for any violations," the office stated.