Tengrinews.kz - Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Alibek Bakayev, commented on the situation involving Kazakh nationals in South Korea.
Bakayev emphasized that Kazakhstan does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries.
"The diplomacy of the Republic of Kazakhstan is to never interfere in the affairs of third countries. Everything happening in South Korea is South Korea’s concern. Our main task today is to ensure the rights of our citizens abroad to the fullest extent," he said during a briefing in the Mazhilis.
According to the Deputy Minister, more than 30,000 Kazakh citizens are currently in South Korea.
"Despite the ongoing situation in South Korea, Kazakh citizens have not sought assistance from the embassy. Should they request help, the embassy will provide all necessary support. One of the reasons for such a large number is the visa-free regime. As of now, we have not received any reports of Kazakh citizens being affected in South Korea or Georgia," he added.
Alibek Bakayev also clarified that there is no need for Kazakh citizens currently in South Korea to leave the country:
"Our embassy in South Korea has not issued such advice. The current situation there is not a state of martial law. It is up to each individual to decide whether to leave the country. The embassy provides recommendations on a case-by-case basis depending on the circumstances, but there will be no general advice to leave the territory."
The Deputy Foreign Minister concluded by advising Kazakh citizens in South Korea to abide by the laws of the host country and refrain from participating in protests or "provocative actions."
For context, on the evening of December 3, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared a state of emergency and martial law. This decision followed the opposition Democratic Party's support in parliament for a reduced budget bill and its submission of a motion to impeach the state auditor and chief prosecutor. However, South Korea's National Assembly voted against implementing martial law in the country.
During the voting, clashes occurred near the National Assembly building between citizens demanding the cancellation of martial law and the military and police. Military equipment appeared on the streets of Seoul.
According to the latest reports, President Yoon Suk Yeol stated that he would cancel the state of emergency martial law. He mentioned that a cabinet meeting would take place soon.
Meanwhile, the Embassy of Kazakhstan in South Korea issued a statement for Kazakh citizens regarding the situation. Kazakh citizens were urged to remain calm, strictly follow the recommendations of local authorities, and refrain from participating in mass events.
