South Korea urges citizens in Venezuela to leave when flights resume

Jan. 6 (Asia Today) — South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday urged its citizens currently in Venezuela to depart the country as soon as commercial flights become available, citing growing uncertainty over the local security situation.

The call was issued during a second joint situation assessment meeting held between the ministry’s headquarters and South Korea’s diplomatic mission in Venezuela. The meeting was chaired by Vice Foreign Minister Kim Jin-ah.

Kim said the government is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela and stressed that ensuring the safety of South Korean nationals remains the top priority.

As of 9 p.m. Sunday, no casualties among South Korean citizens in Venezuela had been reported, the ministry said.

Kim noted that a travel ban remains in effect for areas near Venezuela’s border with Colombia, while a departure advisory applies nationwide. She urged South Koreans currently in the country to leave promptly and advised against any nonessential travel to Venezuela.

The vice minister also praised the advance establishment of four evacuation centers last year in cooperation with the local Korean community. The facilities were stocked with emergency food, medicine and satellite communication equipment with financial support from the ministry. She said the government would provide additional assistance if needed.

Kim further instructed officials at headquarters and overseas missions to maintain close communication and to be fully prepared to implement evacuation or withdrawal plans should conditions deteriorate.

Jeong Han-wook, South Korea’s acting ambassador to Venezuela, said the embassy is maintaining regular contact with the expatriate community and monitoring the safety of citizens on the ground.

“If the situation worsens, we are ready to ensure that the four evacuation centers operate without disruption,” Jeong said. “We will spare no effort to protect our citizens, including preparing emergency safety measures.”

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

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