The Foreign Office has issued a warning for travellers to South Korea after the President declared martial law overnight on Monday.
The declaration was lifted within a couple of hours on Tuesday (3 December) following a vote by MPs in South Korea’s National Assembly, but, in an update to its travel advice, the Foreign Office said it is a ‘developing situation’ and demonstrations are expected.
The BBC reports that MPs have begun impeachment proceedings against President Yoon Suk Yeol, who claimed he had declared martial law to protect the country from North Korea.
The Foreign Office said: “We are aware of the developing situation following a declaration of martial law in South Korea. This has now been lifted. Follow the advice of local authorities and avoid large public gatherings.”
It also warned travellers that demonstrations are expected in the areas around Gwanghwamun, the Presidential Office (Samgakji) and the National Assembly (Yeouido).
The Government’s Minister for Indo-Pacific Catherine West said: “The UK is deeply concerned by the events in South Korea on 3rd of December.
“Our Embassy in Seoul continues to monitor developments and is in touch with the Korean authorities. We call for a peaceful resolution to the situation, in accordance with the law and the constitution of the Republic of Korea.
“British Nationals in South Korea should continue to monitor and follow FCDO travel advice.”
