Indonesian Citizens in South Korea Urged to Remain Cautious Following Martial Law episode
The Indonesian government has advised its citizens living in South Korea to exercise caution and avoid involvement in political events following a brief but dramatic episode of martial law in the country. While South Korean life has largely returned to normal after the six-hour imposition of martial law, Indonesian authorities remain vigilant and have contingency plans in place.
Short-Lived Martial Law Shakes South Korea
South Korea was thrown into political turmoil when President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, citing the need to protect the country from pro-North Korean forces. The declaration, which granted temporary rule to military authorities during emergencies, sent shockwaves across the globe. However, the martial law lasted a mere six hours before South Korean lawmakers swiftly voted against it.
Indonesians in South Korea Remain Safe
The Indonesian Embassy in Seoul has confirmed that all Indonesian citizens in South Korea are safe and accounted for. According to Judha Nugraha, director for citizen protection at Indonesia‘s Foreign Affairs Ministry, life for Indonesians living in South Korea has largely returned to normal, mirroring the experience of most South Koreans.
“While things have returned to normal, Indonesians in South Korea need to remain cautious,” Judha stated during a press briefing on Thursday. “Please stay away from riots and mass gatherings. Do not get involved in [South Korea’s] domestic politics.”
Embassy Preparedness and Citizen Focus
While the situation in South Korea has stabilized, the Indonesian Embassy has taken precautions by implementing a contingency plan in case circumstances change rapidly. With 55,991 Indonesians living in South Korea as of September 2023, the embassy is committed to their safety and well-being. At present, the embassy does not deem it necessary to evacuate citizens.
The Indonesian government remains focused solely on the safety of its citizens abroad. Roy Soemirat, spokesman for the Foreign Ministry, emphasized this stance, stating, “When it comes to the situation in South Korea, our main focus is to make sure that our citizens are safe. We are in no position to comment on South Korea’s internal dynamics.”
South Korea Faces Political Uncertainty
The fallout from the martial law episode continues to reverberate in South Korea. The main opposition party has called for President Yoon Suk Yeol’s immediate resignation or impeachment, citing the controversial declaration. South Korea’s national assembly is set to vote on Yoon’s impeachment on Saturday.
In addition to the general advisory, what specific support is the Indonesian Embassy offering to migrant workers?
## Interview with Indonesian Embassy Spokesperson on Safety of Indonesian Citizens in South Korea
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today. Can you tell us about the situation facing Indonesian citizens in South Korea following the recent declaration and lifting of martial law?
**Embassy Spokesperson:** Certainly. While the martial law episode was brief and has been lifted, the Indonesian Embassy in Seoul understands the concerns it raised for our citizens living in South Korea. We have issued an advisory urging our citizens to exercise caution and avoid involvement in any political gatherings or demonstrations.
**Interviewer:** Could you elaborate on the measures the Indonesian government is taking to ensure the safety of Indonesian citizens in South Korea?
**Embassy Spokesperson:** The safety and well-being of Indonesian citizens abroad is our top priority. We are closely monitoring the situation in South Korea and remain in constant communication with local authorities. We have contingency plans in place, and our embassy staff are ready to provide assistance to any Indonesian citizen who may require it.
**Interviewer:** Are there any specific concerns for Indonesian citizens given their demographic makeup in South Korea, most of whom are migrant workers?
**Embassy Spokesperson:** While over 90% of Indonesians in South Korea are migrant workers on short-term contracts [[1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesians_in_South_Korea)], we are treating all Indonesian citizens equally. Our advisory applies to all, and we encourage everyone to remain vigilant and informed.
**Interviewer:** How has the Indonesian community in South Korea reacted to these events?
**Embassy Spokesperson:** The Indonesian community has shown remarkable composure and resilience. We believe the fact that the situation was resolved quickly and peacefully has helped alleviate their anxieties.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your time and insights.
**Embassy Spokesperson:** You’re welcome. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to our citizens as needed.
