Martial Law Disrupts Year-End Awards Ceremonies “Broadcast Networks in Crisis”
Multiple entertainment industry insiders told Ten Asia on December 4, “We received urgent notifications that the year-end awards shows from the three major broadcasters have been completely suspended.” This information is also being communicated to artists who were scheduled to perform at the ceremonies. Additionally, many entertainment companies have reportedly instructed their employees to work from home under emergency notices.
The ripple effects extend beyond the entertainment industry. Local festivals and events are also being canceled. Major entertainment agencies have received emergency notifications stating that all events scheduled to take place from today onward are called off due to the martial law situation, which makes it impossible to hold such gatherings.
An industry insider explained the widespread cancellations, “Holding an event under martial law could lead to unforeseen consequences.” Local government-sponsored festivals and events are also expected to face inevitable cancellations.
The music industry, in particular, is on high alert. Almost every entertainment agency had plans for year-end concerts or fan meetings, making this an unprecedented crisis. A representative from one agency commented, “We’re closely monitoring the situation in real-time. It’s a state of emergency for us.”
Technically, large-scale gatherings such as concerts are not prohibited under martial law, as they are unrelated to political assemblies or freedom of association. The statement from the Martial Law Command on December 3 declared a ban on “all political activities, including those by the National Assembly, local councils, political parties and political organizations, as well as political rallies and demonstrations“. However, no specific restrictions on large gatherings were mentioned.
Nevertheless, the possibility of the martial law declaration leading to societal unrest remains a major concern. With the National Assembly effectively shut down and the potential for mass protests, the risk of social chaos cannot be dismissed.
Major entertainment companies are reportedly operating in emergency mode, closely monitoring developments.
Source: Naver
