Interior ministry launches crackdown on illegal banners ahead of Chuseok

The interior ministry said Wednesday it will launch a two-week crackdown on illegal banners starting Thursday to ensure a safe street environment ahead of the Chuseok holiday, which runs from September 24 to 27.

The concentrated inspection period extends from September 17 through September 30, focusing on political banners that violate regulations, unregistered holiday greeting signs, and installations in prohibited zones. While current laws allow political parties to hang up to two banners per district for 15 days without prior notification, strict bans remain in place near children protection zones and fire safety facilities.

Joint inspection teams composed of civil servants and members of local outdoor advertising associations will patrol major roads, intersections, traditional markets and areas around multi-use facilities. Authorities warned that any confirmed violations will face correction orders and fines, while signs posing immediate safety risks will be removed on the spot.

Officials briefed central and regional party chapters on the campaign's purpose and requested their cooperation, while simultaneously guiding advertising businesses on proper installation procedures.

"The department will work with local governments to thoroughly crack down on indiscriminately posted illegal banners and fix them immediately so citizens can enjoy a safe and pleasant holiday," said Jin Myung-ki, head of the autonomy innovation office at the interior ministry.