Korea Suddenly Classified as a 'Travel Risk Country'... US, Japan, and Others Advise Their Citizens to Exercise Caution

US Embassy Expands Remote Work and Temporarily Suspends Some Operations

A travel advisory for South Korea has been issued following President Yoon Seok-yeol's declaration of martial law. Some major countries have urged caution for their citizens traveling to South Korea, citing the need to protect their nationals.

On the 3rd (local time), the UK Foreign Office stated, "We are aware of the situation unfolding following the declaration of martial law in South Korea," and advised, "Follow local authority guidance and avoid political protests." The British Embassy in South Korea also posted on social media, "We are closely monitoring the situation," and urged, "Please keep an eye on the UK Foreign Office notices."

On the morning of the 4th, when President Yoon Suk-yeol declared the lifting of martial law through an emergency national address, a foreign tourist was observing an anti-martial law rally at Gwanghwamun Square in Jongno-gu, Seoul. Photo by Yonhap News.

The U.S. Department of State warned that the situation could remain fluid even after the announcement of the lifting of martial law.

The U.S. Department of State said, "Potential disruptions should be anticipated. Peaceful protests can turn into confrontations and escalate into violence," and advised, "Avoid areas where protests are taking place." Additionally, the U.S. Embassy in South Korea announced, "Until the situation stabilizes, we are expanding telework for our staff and temporarily suspending some consular services."

The Japanese Embassy in South Korea also reportedly sent emails and other communications to its nationals residing in South Korea, advising, "Specific measures are uncertain, but please pay attention to future announcements."

Singapore, Ukraine, and other countries advised their nationals through their embassies' social media accounts in South Korea to refrain from participating in politically charged events and to respond appropriately to the local situation.

President Yoon held a special national address at the Yongsan Presidential Office the previous afternoon and declared martial law. Subsequently, around 1 a.m. on the same day, the National Assembly passed a resolution demanding the lifting of martial law, and President Yoon declared the lifting of martial law around 4:20 a.m. on the 4th, approximately six hours after the declaration.