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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider South Korea safe for tourists, visitors despite political turmoil, says culture ministry

South Korea safe for tourists, visitors despite political turmoil, says culture ministry

Published Dec 12, 2024 08:21 am

South Korea remains safe for visitors including tourists despite the political turmoil involving President Yoon Suk Yeol.

In a statement shared by the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) Manila Office, South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) said, “The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea presents its compliments to the stakeholders in the field of tourism, including travel agencies and MICE organizers worldwide and wishes to provide the following assurances regarding the current situation in the Republic of Korea.”

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A welcome message for arriving passengers at Incheon International Airport in South Korea (Jonathan Hicap) 

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The popular Myeong-dong shopping district in Seoul, South Korea (Jonathan Hicap) 

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The note verbale issued by Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Photo from KTO Manila Office)

“The Government of the Republic of Korea is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all visitors. While recent events may have raised concerns, we wish to emphasize that the Republic of Korea remains a stable destination, and the situation in major tourist areas is carefully monitored and managed by the relevant authorities,” the ministry assured. 

It added, “We have implemented enhanced safety measures across all regions frequented by tourists and international events. These include increased coordination between national security forces and local authorities to ensure that visitors can enjoy their experiences without disruption.” 

“The Government is working closely with global partners and domestic stakeholders to provide real-time updates and any necessary support to travellers. We are confident that all visitors and event participants will feel safe and welcomed, and we stand ready to assist in addressing any concerns you may have,” the agency said. 

It said, “The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea avails itself of this opportunity to renew the assurances of its highest consideration and looks forward to continued collaboration with our valued partners in promoting the Republic of Korea as a premier destination.”

Yoon imposed martial law in South Korea on Dec. 3 but lifted it six hours later. 

He survived an impeachment vote at the opposition-controlled National Assembly. He is still facing a second impeachment vote. 

In a televised speech on Dec. 12, Yoon said he declared martial law "to protect the nation and normalize state affairs" against the opposition, accusing it of paralyzing the government, the Korea Times reported. 

"The National Assembly, dominated by the large opposition party, has become a monster that destroys the Constitutional order of free democracy," he said. 

PresidentYoon1.jpegSouth Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol (Photo from the website of the Office of the President of South Korea)

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