Phnom Penh Post Reports on Statements from Cambodian Authorities and Tourism Industry
Cambodian Officials Refute Claims: "Incidents Involve Scam Organization Associates, Ordinary Tourists Are Safe"
Experts Emphasize: "Crimes Are a Transnational Issue... Cooperation Is Essential for Effective Response"
Cho Hyun, Minister of Foreign Affairs, is responding to a question from Yoon Hoo-duk, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, regarding crimes against Koreans in Cambodia during the Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee's national audit held at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, on the 13th. Photo by Yonhap News
In Cambodia, which has recently come under scrutiny due to incidents involving kidnapping, confinement, and murder by scam organizations targeting Koreans, local authorities are closely monitoring the Korean government's response and public sentiment in Korea, while also expressing regret over the situation. Cambodian officials emphasize that their country is also a victim of these criminal organizations and that Cambodia remains a safe destination for foreign tourists, including Koreans.
The Phnom Penh Post reported on the 13th (local time) that Cambodian officials and tourism experts have urged the Korean government to distinguish between "crimes committed by scam organizations and their associates" and "crimes against ordinary tourists visiting Cambodia." This response follows the recent death of a Korean man linked to a scam organization and President Lee Jaemyung's directive to strengthen diplomatic efforts for crime prevention. The media outlet reported on President Lee's order to "mobilize all diplomatic resources to protect Koreans in Cambodia from crime," as well as the domestic coverage of the death of a Korean national in Cambodia.
Cambodian authorities' joint task force fighting against 'online scam' criminal organizations revealed the Chinese nationals arrested during a crackdown operation conducted in Kampot Province last August, according to Cambodia's state-run AKP News Agency. These three Chinese individuals were prosecuted on murder charges by the local prosecution investigating the case of a Korean university student who died after being tortured in Cambodia last August. Yonhap News Agency
Seam Sotkeng, President of the Cambodia Korean-speaking Tour Guide Association, told the Phnom Penh Post, "Cambodia is not a dangerous country for ordinary visitors, especially Korean tourists. All recent incidents involved individuals connected to scam organizations." He added that he had led a Korean tour group over the past ten days and "all the guests felt Cambodia was safe. Although they had heard stories about scams before coming, there were no issues in reality." He further stressed, "Most of the victims were not tourists, but people who applied for illegal jobs online and were deceived or extorted." He expressed regret that "the Korean leader (the president) failed to distinguish between scam organization cases and general tourism." He also emphasized that the Korean government should strengthen education for its citizens about online scam tactics such as "high-income job offers."
Kin Phea, Director of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, shared a similar view. He stated, "Rather than singling out a specific country, the Korean government should provide guidance to citizens for all overseas travel." He added, "Korea's diplomatic pressure will only worsen bilateral relations, and since crimes such as scams, kidnapping, and torture are transnational, they can only be resolved through cooperation between both countries." He also said, "The Cambodian government must continue its efforts to eradicate crime," noting that "such incidents negatively affect the country's image and tourism industry. Without safety, no one will visit."
Touch Sokhak, spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior, said, "Online scams targeting Koreans are not a problem unique to Cambodia. In fact, more serious crimes are occurring in other countries." He stressed, "There should not be unnecessary tension in bilateral relations because of this incident," and added, "Cambodia is also a victim of international scam organizations. While we understand the Korean government's concerns, we hope it is recognized that Cambodia is also a victim of these crimes."
Spokesperson Sokhak further explained, "Cambodian citizens are also exposed to risks from online scams abroad. It is important to share information and educate people about scam tactics." He emphasized, "Cambodia has posted online scam warnings at major international airports and border entry points, and has never provided a safe haven for scam organizations."
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