Martial law lifted, but "refrain from visiting Korea"...Warnings issued by countries such as the U.S. and the U.K.

ⓒYonhap News Agency

In connection with Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of emergency martial law, several countries issued warnings to be aware of travel to Korea.

As President Yoon's declaration of martial law spread rapidly to foreign countries on the night of the 3rd, major countries issued travel advisories to protect their citizens.

On the 4th, the British Foreign Ministry issued a travel warning for South Korea, saying, "Follow the advice of local authorities and avoid political protests."

The British Embassy in Seoul said on social media, "We are closely monitoring the situation. Please keep an eye on the announcement from the Foreign Ministry," he said.

The U.S. State Department also judged that the situation was unstable even after the announcement of the lifting of martial law. The State Department said, "We need to keep in mind the possibility of potential confusion," adding, "Peaceful protests could also lead to violence. Avoid protest areas," he warned. As a result, the U.S. Embassy in Korea has expanded its employees' work from home.

Capture the website of the U.S. Embassy in Korea

Singapore and Ukraine advised their Korean residents to remain calm and respond according to the local situation through the official social media of the embassy in Korea.

The Japanese Embassy in Korea reportedly urged its citizens living in South Korea to pay attention through e-mails, saying, "The specific measures are uncertain, but please announce them in the future."

Israel, which is at war, also warned of the situation in South Korea and recommended that "reconsider visiting unless absolutely necessary." Israel's Foreign Ministry has instructed its citizens to constantly check local information and stay at home.

Travel industry confusion is also expected as foreign tourists scheduled to visit Korea can postpone or cancel their trip to Korea due to travel warnings from each country.

Reporter Park Sun-young of Digital News Team