South Korea intensifies evacuation drives amid the spiraling Middle East conflict, with the Foreign Ministry confirming safe passage for citizens from Qatar, Jordan, and beyond. The Saturday update details a relentless push to secure nationals in peril.
Highlighting Qatar, 65 South Koreans made it to Saudi Arabia safely from Tuesday through Friday, escaping a region gripped by uncertainty. Jordan’s functioning airports allowed 41 short-term travelers to depart Amman over two days, bolstered by an embassy rapid-response team at the terminal.
Kuwait operations rescued 14 locals plus one foreign spouse to Saudi soil. The embassy’s reach extended to 25 evacuees from Iran, 113 from Israel, 14 from Bahrain, and five from Iraq, all shuttled to safer havens en route to Seoul.
Capping a dramatic week, Friday’s Emirates flight from Dubai delivered 372 South Koreans to Incheon Airport at 8:25 PM—the inaugural direct route since hostilities flared. This UAE-backed charter followed days of drone attacks and bombings witnessed by those aboard.
Relief was palpable at arrivals, where families embraced amid sobs, marking an end to prolonged fear. The government hailed the collaboration as pivotal.
Roughly 18,000 South Koreans linger across 14 nations, comprising 4,900 brief visitors and 3,500 immobilized by cancellations. Officials pledge unwavering support, adapting to the fluid crisis landscape.