Once completed in 2014, navy base in Gangjeong on the coast of southern Jeju island, would host some 20 warships . - AFP (File Photo

SEOUL: More than 1,000 South Korean riot police Friday dispersed or arrested scores of protesters who for months have blocked construction of a naval base on a scenic holiday island.

Navy engineers resumed work after police evicted about 130 protesters who have occupied the site at Gangjeong on the coast of southern Jeju Island since June.

Military officials say the dollar 970 million project is vital for national security. But village residents and activists oppose it, arguing the base could set off a regional arms race and damage the environment.

The pre-dawn raid sparked clashes but there were no immediate reports on injuries.

“Heavy equipment moved into the site after the navy erected fences to block off the protesters,” a police spokesman in Seoul told AFP.

Police detained 35 people, including three activists who have been wanted for leading violent protests for months, he said.

The operation came two days after the government warned that the project could not be delayed any longer.

The volcanic island has seen its 500,000 population sharply divided since the military in 2007 chose Gangjeong as the site for the base.

Once completed in 2014 it will host some 20 warships including submarines to help protect shipping lanes through which virtually all the country's sea trade passes.

The deployment will also help guard against sea infiltration by North Korea and could quickly respond to territorial disputes with neighbouring states, the military has said.

The island's council accepted the base, citing a survey that showed a majority of islanders support it.

But opponents ranging from environmentalists to religious leaders and anti-government activists allege South Korea bowed to pressure from the United States, which they say is eager to establish a military presence near China.

Both Seoul and Washington, which stations 28,500 troops in South Korea, deny the accusation. Seoul's defence ministry says the new base is unrelated to US calls for a regional missile defence system.

Opinion

Editorial

Race against time
Updated 09 Feb, 2025

Race against time

While some bright spots emerged at Breathe Pakistan moot, we must streamline our climate governance.
Open door
09 Feb, 2025

Open door

THE door is still open for talks, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq has reminded the PTI. What matters, however,...
Football suspension
09 Feb, 2025

Football suspension

ONCE again, Pakistan has been ousted from the global football family. FIFA recently suspended the Pakistan Football...
A year later
Updated 08 Feb, 2025

A year later

A war of egos has been fought between a handful of individuals at the cost of the well-being of millions of ordinary Pakistanis.
Wheat decision
08 Feb, 2025

Wheat decision

THE federal decision to stop setting the minimum support price for wheat and cease the staple’s procurement...
Dhanmondi attack
08 Feb, 2025

Dhanmondi attack

HISTORY has shown that unless states deliver development and equal rights to all, disenfranchised people can target...