As lawmakers in South Korea prepare to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol after his short-lived declaration of martial law on Tuesday 3 December, some visitors to the East Asian republic are continuing unperturbed with tourist itineraries, while authorities around the world are issuing updated security advice.
Commercial and cultural attractions open, but demilitarised zone off-limits
The Associated Press has reported an increased police presence around Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung Palace, an area where protesters have been known to gather, but nearby tours appeared to be operating normally and various visitors told reporters they were not overly worried about the political turmoil, especially since the coup attempt had been prevented.
Commercial shopping districts such as Insadong and Myeongdong appeared to be as busy as usual and at Bukchon Hanok Village, a residential area filled with traditional Korean houses, tourists were out and about. However, some destinations further afield have been affected, at least according to one Australian tourist, Geff Johnson, who told AP a tour he’d booked to the demilitarised zone between North and South Korea had been cancelled due to the security situation.
Expect disruptions, be vigilant, avoid gatherings
Meanwhile, governments around the world have responded to the martial law declaration and vehement opposition to it, with updates to their travel advisories. The UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office told its citizens in South Korea to stay away from crowded areas where protests might develop but stopped short of officially advising against travel there (something required before most insurance companies will cover cancellations).
“We are aware of the developing situation following a declaration of martial law in South Korea. This has now been lifted,” the UK notice says, continuing: “Follow the advice of local authorities and avoid large public gatherings. Demonstrations are expected in the areas around Gwanghwamun, the Presidential Office (Samgakji) and the National Assembly (Yeouido).”
US embassy employees stay at home amid “fluid” events
The US embassy in the republic described the situation as “fluid” and said that routine consular appointments had been cancelled in the wake of events, with employees guided to work from home and avoid sending children to school. The US mission also told citizens to expect “potential disruptions” and “pay attention to your surroundings and exercise routine safety precautions.”
Like the UK guidance, the US alert also urged people to “avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large crowds, gatherings, protests, or rallies. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.”
The Canadian government has also published guidance. It notes that “tensions on the Korean Peninsula could escalate with little notice and the security situation could deteriorate suddenly.” As a result, it too has issued similar guidance to “exercise caution, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, monitor local media for the latest information, and follow the instructions of local authorities, including curfew orders.”
