Seoul: Prime Minister Kim Min-seok called Wednesday for strict measures against any activities inciting hate and discrimination against foreign tourists ahead of this month's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. Kim issued the call during a public safety meeting with relevant ministers, including Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and Interior Minister Yun Ho-jung, as anti-China rallies have taken place across Seoul.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the prime minister emphasized the significance of the APEC summit, stating, "The government regards the (APEC summit) as not simply a diplomatic event, but as an opportunity to show the Republic of Korea's restored national dignity," referring to the gathering set for Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 in the southeastern city of Gyeongju.

Kim expressed concerns over ongoing hate rallies against foreigners, describing them as self-destructive acts that cause anxiety among foreigners and disrupt local small merchants' businesses. He acknowledged the importance of freedom of speech but stressed the need to exercise it without violating the rights and safety of others.

"I believe discriminatory actions and humiliating expressions against foreigners must be eradicated without fail as they are acts harmful to the Republic of Korea's national dignity and standing," Kim stated. He urged each ministry to respond strictly in accordance with the law and principles to all acts that incite hate and discrimination against foreign tourists and cause damage to small merchants' businesses.