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Tensions in South Korea: Travel Advisory for Israelis

The Foreign Ministry warns: Political tensions in South Korea are escalating on the eve of the presidential impeachment verdict
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Israeli citizens are advised to avoid demonstration areas in Seoul and follow authorities' instructions. Emergency numbers are available in case of distress.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry issued an important public announcement yesterday warning of increasing political tensions in South Korea. The notice, published following recent developments in the East Asian country, recommends that Israeli citizens in South Korea take special precautions in light of widespread demonstrations expected to expand in the coming days.

According to the announcement, political tensions in South Korea are growing ahead of the anticipated decision in the presidential impeachment trial. As a result, Israeli authorities expect that large-scale demonstrations with many participants will continue to expand significantly, especially in the capital Seoul.

Diplomatic sources estimate that protest demonstrations may spread to additional cities throughout the country, but the main focus remains on the capital, where central government institutions are concentrated. The current situation in South Korea is causing concern within the international community, as foreign ministries of other countries are also considering publishing similar warnings to their citizens.

The Foreign Ministry's clear recommendation for Israeli citizens is to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise extra caution near gatherings, protests, or rallies. This comes from the understanding that although most demonstrations in South Korea are conducted in a peaceful and organized manner, there is always a risk of escalation and outbreak of violence at protest centers.

The Foreign Ministry's announcement emphasizes that Israelis staying in the country should follow local media for updated information and act according to local authorities' guidelines. The Ministry clarifies that authorities in South Korea are making efforts to maintain public order, but it is important to follow their instructions and avoid possible points of friction.

The political crisis in South Korea, which led to the impeachment trial of the president, is stirring the local population and triggering waves of public protest. The country's political system is under unprecedented pressure, as the expected court decision on impeachment could bring a significant shock to the structure of government.

Professional sources note that South Korea is known for its protest culture, with mass demonstrations being an integral part of the political landscape in the country. However, the expected intensity of the current demonstrations and the tension surrounding the approaching decision in the impeachment trial raise special concern.

The Foreign Ministry's announcement also included emergency phone numbers, with Israeli citizens in distress requested to call the Israeli Embassy in Seoul's emergency line at +82-2-3210-8500 or the Foreign Ministry's situation room in Jerusalem at +972-2-5303155.

Representatives of the Israeli Embassy in Seoul are on heightened alert and closely monitoring developments. The embassy is prepared to assist Israeli citizens if necessary and maintains continuous contact with local authorities to receive ongoing updates on the situation.

The assessment is that these recommendations will remain in effect until after the impeachment trial decision is rendered and according to developments on the ground. The Foreign Ministry emphasizes that this is a travel advisory and not a travel warning, and that currently, there is no instruction to avoid travel to South Korea completely, but only to take appropriate precautions and avoid specific demonstration areas.