The Foreign Ministry has urged South Koreans in the Middle East to leave the region promptly unless they have urgent business, as armed conflict between the United States and Iran continues to escalate.
On July 19, the ministry held a joint situation assessment meeting with 17 overseas diplomatic missions in the Middle East, led by Second Vice Minister Kim Jin-ah, to review safety measures for South Koreans and vessels in the area.
Vice Minister Kim stated, “The armed conflict between the U.S. and Iran, reignited over issues in the Strait of Hormuz, has persisted for over a week. Attacks on civilian facilities have resulted in numerous casualties, raising concerns for the safety of our citizens in the region.”
He instructed each diplomatic mission to update emergency contact networks and disseminate safety notices regularly. He emphasized that since a travel advisory level 3, recommending departure, has been in effect for most Middle Eastern countries since March 8, short-term travelers should be advised to leave unless absolutely necessary.
Travelers heading to or transiting through the Middle East were also advised to check flight information in advance, as cancellations and airspace closures could disrupt their plans.
Vice Minister Kim reviewed the safety of two South Korean vessels remaining in the Strait of Hormuz and instructed vigilance regarding the safety of vessels navigating the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea, where blockade concerns have been raised.
The Foreign Ministry plans to continue monitoring the situation in the Middle East and implement necessary measures to protect its citizens abroad.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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