South Korea Martial Law: Canada and Other Countries Advise Caution to Travelers

Canada and other nations advise tourists in South Korea to exercise caution after the government briefly declared martial emergency overnight Tuesday, prompting protests and democratic upheaval.

President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law Tuesday night, accusing the opposition-controlled parliament of sympathizing with communist North Korea, and military personnel landed on the National Assembly.

 

Outraged lawmakers decided to repeal the decree hours later, and the administration officially removed the order Wednesday morning during a cabinet meeting by South Korean law. 

Protests continued in Seoul, with activists demanding Yoon's impeachment and arrest.

 

On Tuesday afternoon, Canada updated its travel advice, asking visitors to exercise care, avoid rallies and large gatherings, monitor local media for the most up-to-date information, and observe authorities' directions, including curfews.

 

Canada did not raise its overall danger level but said travelers could continue to take usual security procedures. 

Hyung-Gu Lynn, the AECL/KEPCO Chair in Korean Research at the University of British Columbia's Asian Studies Department, emailed Global News to say that he expects major demonstrations and protests to continue when martial control is ended.

 

He said it will most certainly cause logistical and transportation issues for tourists in Seoul, particularly in regions around the presidential offices and the National Assembly.

 

Protests on the bustling Sejong-aero street in downtown Seoul "will probably have the most impact on tourists because of its central location and proximity to multiple major tourist sites," Lynn said.

The United States and the United Kingdom similarly encouraged residents to exercise caution when traveling to or staying in East Asia.

 

These countries' cautions are comparable to Canada's, advising travelers to avoid political demonstrations and heed local authorities' directions. People are also encouraged to obtain proper travel insurance if they intend to travel, as it should cover planned activities and unexpected expenses.

 

"The situation remains fluid, and US citizens should prepare for potential disruptions," the US State Department stated in a statement on X. 

The United States also announced the cancellation of normal consular appointments for citizens and visa applicants scheduled for Wednesday.

 

At least three European Union countries have also issued similar advice to travelers.

 

Bulgaria, Latvia, and Ireland have all encouraged inhabitants to remain vigilant and avoid places where public demonstrations or big crowds are taking place.

 

In its advisory, Latvia also stated that those who do not follow the numerous restrictions may be detained, searched, and arrested.