Protests Erupt in Gyeongju Over Trump Visit, Condemning Demands for U.S. Investment

'NO TRUMP' Rallies Held in Gyeongju, Protesting U.S. Pressure for Investment

On October 29, 2025, Gyeongju became the site of simultaneous rallies reflecting starkly different views on the visit of former U.S. President Donald Trump. At the old Gyeongju Station plaza, the 'Joint Action to Block Trump's Threats' organized a 'NO TRUMP Rally Condemning Forced U.S. Investment and Security Threats,' with participants voicing strong opposition to demands for increased investment in the U.S. The rally aimed to highlight citizens' concerns regarding economic pressures and security issues, key points of contention in recent U.S.-South Korea relations. Organizers issued a statement criticizing the U.S. government's excessive investment demands, arguing they negatively impact the domestic economy and create security instability, urging a proactive response. Participants emphasized that mutual respect and fair cooperation are essential for a healthy U.S.-South Korea relationship, advocating for a balanced relationship rather than unilateral demands and pressure.

On the same day, a contrasting rally was held in Gyeongju. The 'East Sea Patriotic Citizens Alliance,' led by the Liberty Unification Party, organized a 'Welcome Trump Visit Rally' near Daereungwon, expressing strong support for Trump's visit. They voiced optimism about strengthening the U.S.-South Korea alliance and U.S. security cooperation, arguing that a solid relationship is essential for South Korea's security and prosperity. Rally participants waved American and South Korean flags, emphasizing the importance of the alliance and hoping Trump's visit would further develop bilateral relations. They also expressed support for the U.S.'s strong deterrence against North Korea's nuclear threats and expanded economic cooperation, believing the alliance can contribute to peace and stability in Northeast Asia. Thus, in Gyeongju, citizens with opposing views on Trump's visit held fervent rallies, each raising their voices.

Meanwhile, progressive groups held rallies opposing Trump's visit. The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) and the Progressive Party held a 'KCTU Rally Against Trump's Visit: Economic Exploitation and Job Destruction!' in front of the old Gyeongju Station, strongly condemning Trump's visit. They argued that U.S. economic policies negatively impact the South Korean economy and contribute to job losses, aiming to highlight these issues during Trump's visit. Rally participants criticized U.S. trade pressure and investment demands for weakening domestic industries and threatening workers' livelihoods, urging the government to protect economic sovereignty and not yield to U.S. demands. They also pointed out the unfairness of the South Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA), advocating for renegotiation to protect South Korea's interests. The KCTU and the Progressive Party stated they will continue to monitor U.S. economic policies and, if necessary, launch stronger struggles.

On the same day, approximately 60 members of the Korea University Student Progressive Union (Daejinyeon) attempted to enter the Gyeongju National Museum, where the U.S.-South Korea summit was being held, leading to a commotion as police intervened. Daejinyeon members attempted a surprise protest against Trump's visit, but failed to enter the museum due to the swift response of the police. The police arrested them at the scene and are investigating the exact circumstances of the incident. Daejinyeon has consistently maintained a critical stance on U.S. foreign policy and U.S.-South Korea relations, and is carrying out more active opposition activities in response to Trump's visit. In a statement, they argued that U.S. military intervention and economic pressure threaten world peace and stability, pointing out the inequality of the U.S.-South Korea alliance and emphasizing the need to establish an independent foreign policy. Daejinyeon also stated that they will continue to raise their voices through various forms of protests and rallies, and expand the participation of the younger generation in social issues.

In conclusion, on October 29, 2025, Gyeongju witnessed the simultaneous holding of eight rallies representing both 'pro-U.S.' and 'anti-U.S.' sentiments, reflecting sharply divided public opinion regarding Trump's visit. Each rally participant welcomed or criticized Trump's visit according to their beliefs and values, engaging in heated debates. These diverse voices can be interpreted as reflecting the complex and multi-layered perspectives of South Korean society on U.S.-South Korea relations. The series of rallies in Gyeongju went beyond simply expressing approval or disapproval of Trump's visit, serving as an opportunity to spark in-depth discussions about the future of the U.S.-South Korea alliance and the direction South Korea should take. It is expected that constructive discussions on U.S.-South Korea relations will continue through the participation and exchange of opinions of various citizens.