Ministry of Foreign Affairs: "All Our Citizens Staying in Tonga Are Safe"

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Hyun-seok] The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on the 21st that there is no safety issue concerning Korean nationals residing in Tonga, a South Pacific island nation where an underwater volcanic eruption occurred.

The spokesperson office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "The Embassy in New Zealand (also accredited to Tonga) contacted all 18 Korean nationals staying in Tonga by phone and confirmed that they are all safe," adding, "At the request of the Korean nationals in Tonga, we plan to urgently provide relief supplies such as drinking water, emergency food, masks, and first aid kits."

They continued, "We will also continuously identify and provide additional relief supply needs in the future."

Earlier, on the 15th, a volcanic eruption occurred underwater near Tonga, covering most areas of Tonga with volcanic ash. As a result, rainwater, which is the source of drinking water, was contaminated by volcanic ash. Additionally, a subsequent tsunami destroyed houses and infrastructure.