In the shadow of Middle East turmoil, South Korea’s evacuation operations are gaining ground. The Foreign Ministry’s Saturday disclosure reveals dozens rescued from Qatar and Jordan, within a comprehensive strategy safeguarding thousands abroad.
From Qatar, 65 citizens crossed to Saudi Arabia between Tuesday and Friday, a testament to meticulous planning amid rising threats. Jordan facilitated 41 short-termers’ exits via Amman flights Thursday to Friday, with embassy aides on hand for seamless processing.
Further afield, Kuwait saw 14 South Koreans and a spouse reach safety in Saudi Arabia. Aid flowed to 25 in Iran, 113 in Israel, 14 in Bahrain, and five in Iraq, relocating them strategically.
A pivotal Friday event saw 372 nationals land at Incheon from Dubai on Emirates’ first post-crisis direct flight, arriving near 8:25 PM. Travelers shared accounts of nearby blasts and defensive actions during their ordeal.
Heartwarming airport moments featured emotional homecomings, underscoring the stakes. Bilateral ties with UAE enabled this crucial air bridge.
Of the 18,000 South Koreans in 14 countries—4,900 short-stay and 3,500 stranded—evacuations proceed apace, with the ministry prioritizing every individual’s safe return.