Israel to Cooperate for Prompt Release of Korean National Seized on Vessel

Vice Minister Kim Jinah Meets with Israeli Embassy Charg? d'Affaires in Korea

Regarding the incident in which a vessel carrying a Korean activist was seized by the Israeli military while approaching the Gaza Strip, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on October 9 that Israel has expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety and prompt release of the Korean national.

An image urging the prompt release of Korean peace activist Ahyun Kim, who was abducted by the Israeli military while sailing to the Gaza Strip. Screenshot from Gangjeong Friends Instagram.

On the afternoon of the same day, Kim Jinah, the Second Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Barak Shine, the Charg? d'Affaires of the Israeli Embassy in Korea, at the ministry building. She requested Israel's active cooperation to ensure the safety and prompt release of the Korean national who was on board the vessel seized by Israel on October 8.

In response, Charg? d'Affaires Shine stated that, following the relevant procedures, he would cooperate to ensure the Korean national is released as quickly as possible and that every effort would be made to guarantee their safety.

Vice Minister Kim Jinah conveyed the President's special concern for the safety, swift release, and repatriation of the Korean national, and once again urged Israel's attention and cooperation. She also contacted Raphael Harpaz, the Israeli Ambassador to Korea, who is currently abroad, to deliver Korea's request.

A Ministry of Foreign Affairs official said, "Our embassy in Israel is actively communicating with the relevant Israeli authorities, while also working closely with friendly nations. We are making every effort to ensure the safety and prompt release of our citizen."

According to civic organizations such as Korea Civil Society Emergency Action in Solidarity with Palestine, Gangjeong Friends, and The Pioneers, an international relief flotilla of 11 vessels, including one carrying Korean activist Ahyun Kim, was seized by the Israeli military while approaching the Gaza Strip. The activists are currently being transferred to an Israeli port and are expected to be deported, following previous precedents.