Israel is a key pilgrimage destination for Korean Christians, who visit holy sites such as Jerusalem, believed to be the location of Jesus' crucifixion and tomb, and Bethlehem, regarded as His birthplace. The country attracts around three to four million pilgrims annually from across the globe.
Despite the ministry's travel alert issued in April, advising Koreans to leave Israel and neighboring countries immediately, the Korean Embassy recently discovered that 180 people had entered Israel for a religious event there on Sunday. There are currently a total of about 680 Korean nationals staying in the area.
MOFA spokesperson Lee Jae-woong said that the ministry is closely monitoring the situation around the clock, confirming that there have been no reports of harm to Korean nationals so far.
Lee emphasized, "The ministry is taking measures to ensure the safety of Koreans residing in the Middle East, including Israel. We are continuously taking necessary actions to protect their safety." He added that the ministry strongly recommends all Korean nationals in the region evacuate immediately for their safety.
The urgency of the situation recalls the July 2007 abduction of about two dozen Korean missionaries from Saemmul Church by the Taliban, who were engaged in humanitarian and evangelical work.
The kidnappers demanded a ransom and the release of Taliban prisoners. Despite tense negotiations and the tragic deaths of two hostages, the remaining captives were freed a month later. The incident highlighted the inherent risks of conducting religious activities in conflict zones and heightened global concern for such missions.
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
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