Heightened Risk of Demonstrations and Terrorist Attacks Against US Citizens in Korea
The following is a dispatch recieved from the US Embassy in Seoul:
The U.S. Embassy is transmitting the following information through the Embassy’s warden system as a public service to all U.S. citizens in the Republic of Korea. Please disseminate this message to U.S. citizens in your organizations.
The recent public announcement regarding the dispatch of Korean troops to Iraq raises the potential for demonstrations and violent actions against U.S. government facilities and personnel in Korea. Moreover, the U.S. Embassy remains concerned by indications that al-Qaeda and other terror groups continue to prepare to strike U.S. interests both domestically and overseas. Terrorist actions may include suicide operations, hijackings, bombings or kidnappings. These may involve aviation and other transportation and maritime interests, and may include conventional weapons, such as explosive devices. Terrorists do not distinguish between official and civilian targets. These may include facilities where U.S. citizens and other foreigners congregate or visit, including residential areas, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, hotels, and public areas.
Consequently, Korean police authorities have increased the number of security personnel protecting U.S. government facilities. Additionally, U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) command elements have implemented a series of enhanced security measures at USFK bases to include increased police patrols, random car stops and more robust screening of visitors to the base.
American citizens and their family members are strongly encouraged to maintain a high-level of personal security awareness, especially in areas where large numbers of American citizens congregate. Tourist and shopping areas in the vicinity of USFK bases are considered especially vulnerable to terrorist attacks and American citizens should avoid these places as much as possible. Please report any suspicious incidents or surveillance immediately to the Embassy (tel: 02-397-4000 (24 hours); fax: 02-397-4101; or e-mail: seoul_acs@state.gov). Thank you for your attention and cooperation in this important matter.
The Embassy encourages all American citizens to read and follow the suggestions in the world wide public announcement issued by the Department of State on September 10, 2004. See http://www.asktheconsul.org/2004sep10.htm or http://travel.state.gov/.
The U.S. Embassy in Seoul will continue to keep the U.S. community informed of any changes in the overall security situation. Notices concerning security matters will also be broadcast on AFNK television and radio. The Embassy encourages all U.S. citizens to register their presence in Korea with the American Citizens Services office at the U.S. Embassy or via the Internet at http://travel.state.gov/travel/abroad_registration.html or http://www.asktheconsul.org/ .