Ministry of Justice Supports Swift Departure of Illegal Residents from Turkey and Syria Affected by Earthquake

Voluntary Reporting Only at Airport Without Prior Notification
Temporary Special Measures Implemented Until March 10

Gwacheon Government Complex Ministry of Justice.
Photo by Choi Seok-jin

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Seok-jin, Legal Affairs Specialist] The Ministry of Justice has established a temporary special measure to assist illegal foreign nationals of Turkish and Syrian nationality, who have suffered severe earthquake damage, in their swift departure from the country.

On the 9th, the Ministry of Justice stated, "We have decided to support the rapid departure of nationals from earthquake-affected countries such as Turkey and Syria, currently residing in Korea, so they can return home to confirm the safety of their families and participate in recovery efforts." They added, "For illegal foreign nationals of Turkish and Syrian nationality who wish to voluntarily leave, a temporary special measure will be implemented allowing them to report voluntarily at the airport on the same day without prior notification and depart quickly."

This measure by the Ministry of Justice will be in effect from today until the 10th of next month.

According to AP News and others, as of today, the earthquake that occurred since the 6th in the border region between Turkey and Syria has resulted in over 11,600 deaths and more than 50,000 injuries.