The Seoul police chief on Saturday vowed to sternly deal with any violence against journalists during street rallies to oppose President Park Geun-hye's ouster, a day after angry protesters assaulted the press and damaged their cameras and other equipment.
"We will sternly deal with any violent acts against journalists during protests and rallies in accordance with the law and principle," said Kim Jung-hoon, chief of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency.
On Friday, around 10 journalists were attacked by protesters who expressed discontent with the Constitutional Court's decision to uphold the impeachment of Park over a corruption scandal.
"We express regret over the violent actions against reporters," Kim said, adding he will track down those responsible for the incident.
Kim said violence against reporters can be considered a great infringement of the law as it disturbs the people's right to be informed.
The police chief also urged protesters to carry out their rallies in a peaceful manner in line with the law. (Yonhap)