Seoul is seeking reassurance as escalating tensions in the Middle East raise concerns for the safety of its citizens working and traveling in the region. With Iran’s recent retaliatory strikes against Israel following earlier attacks attributed to Israel, South Korean officials are working to assess the risks and provide support to its nationals. The situation is particularly sensitive given the significant South Korean presence in several countries bordering the conflict zone.
National Security Advisor Kim Eun-jung has been directly involved in coordinating the response, emphasizing the government’s commitment to protecting South Korean citizens abroad. The focus is on monitoring the evolving security landscape and preparing for potential evacuation scenarios, though no immediate evacuation orders have been issued as of today, March 2, 2026. This developing situation follows a weekend of intense missile barrages and air raid sirens across Israel and Jordan.
The South Korean government estimates that approximately 24,000 of its citizens reside in the Arab world, with significant populations in the United Arab Emirates (11,000), Saudi Arabia (6,000), and Qatar (3,000), according to data from 2014. Smaller communities are also present in Algeria, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Morocco, Bahrain, Tunisia, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, Sudan, Lebanon, Mauritania, and Palestine. The scale and tempo of the recent attacks have been described as unprecedented by many Korean residents in the region.
Growing Concerns Among Korean Residents
Lee Kang-keun, head of the Korean Association in Israel, described a heightened sense of fear among the Korean community there. “It’s the first time they’ve fired missiles every one to two hours like this,” Lee said in an interview with the JoongAng Ilbo on Sunday morning. He noted that emergency alerts were sounding repeatedly throughout the night, accompanied by the sounds of explosions. The constant threat of incoming missiles is creating a climate of anxiety for those living in affected areas. The Korean Association in Israel is serving as a key point of contact for residents seeking information and assistance.
Government Response and Contingency Planning
The South Korean government has established a special task force to monitor financial markets during the crisis, recognizing the potential for economic repercussions. Korean Air has already taken precautionary measures, turning back and canceling flights along the Incheon-Dubai route following the recent strikes on Iran. These actions demonstrate a proactive approach to mitigating risks for both citizens and businesses. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has ordered an emergency response to the Middle East crisis, according to reports. The government is urging calm while simultaneously preparing for a range of potential outcomes, including the possibility of assisted departures for citizens who wish to leave the region.
Historical Context and Korean Presence in the Middle East
While recent events have brought renewed attention to the situation, the presence of Koreans in the Arab world dates back to the 1970s, initially driven by economic opportunities. Between 1975 and 1985, over 1.1 million Koreans traveled to the region for work, making it a major destination for Korean emigrants. Although many have since returned home or moved elsewhere, a significant community remains. The initial wave of Korean workers primarily took on construction jobs, particularly in Saudi Arabia, marking the beginning of a sustained Korean presence in the Middle East.
Looking Ahead
South Korean authorities are continuing to closely monitor the situation in the Middle East and are in communication with relevant international partners. The next key step will be a further assessment of the security situation following Iran’s recent actions and a determination of whether additional measures are needed to protect Korean citizens. The government has pledged to provide regular updates and support to its nationals in the region.
If you have concerns about family or friends in the Middle East, please reach out to the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs for assistance. Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.
