US Embassy in Korea Raises 'Red Light'... "Suspension of Visa Services"

All Routine Consular Services Suspended

The U.S. Embassy in South Korea has issued an alert to its citizens in response to the emergency martial law situation.

On the morning of the 4th, the embassy posted a red alert on the main page of its English website along with a notice titled "Warning: Guidelines for U.S. Citizens Following the Declaration of Martial Law by the President of South Korea."

On the morning of the 4th, a notice with a red alert was posted on the English homepage of the U.S. Embassy in Korea. U.S. Embassy in Korea

The embassy warned, "Even after President Yoon Suk-yeol announced the lifting of martial law, the situation remains fluid," and advised, "U.S. citizens should prepare for potential disruptions." It further urged, "Avoid areas where protests are taking place and exercise caution near large military deployments, gatherings, demonstrations, or assemblies," emphasizing that "even protests with peaceful intentions can escalate into confrontations or violence."

The embassy announced that it will cancel all consular appointments for U.S. citizens and visa applicants, except for emergency consular services. Routine consular services, including visa and passport interviews and notarizations, will also be suspended. Embassy staff have been instructed to expand telecommuting, and restrictions will be placed on school attendance for embassy employees' children.