In connection with the Constitutional Court’s verdict on the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, U.S. citizens should anticipate large-scale demonstrations and protests, as well as an increased police presence.
Most demonstrations in South Korea are peaceful. However, avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place, and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large crowds, gatherings, protests, or rallies. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.
In Seoul, demonstrations may occur around the National Assembly (Yeouido), Gwanghwamun Square, the Constitutional Court (Jongno), the Presidential Office (Samgakji), the Presidential Residence (Hannam-dong), and on university campuses.
Mass transit including subways and buses may be impacted. Access to the following transit stations and neighborhoods could be restricted due to ongoing demonstrations:
In central Seoul, key stations including but not limited to: Gwanghwamun Station on Line 5; Anguk Station on Line 3; City Hall Station on Lines 1 and 2; Jonggak Station on Line 1; Jongno 3-ga Station on Lines 1, 3 and 5; and Gyeongbokgung Station on Line 3 may be subject to closures. Metro stations in the vicinity of rally sites in Busan, Daegu, Gwangju and Daejeon may also be closed for crowd control.
Actions to Take:
U.S. citizens in the Republic of Korea are encouraged to monitor local news media and follow the guidance of government officials and local authorities.
Please ensure your information is up to date in STEP and advise any U.S. citizens who DID NOT receive this message to do the same.
Consular Operations:
On the afternoon of April 3 and all day on April 4, routine consular operations (including visa interviews, passport interviews, notarial services, and Consular Report of Birth Abroad application acceptance) at the U.S. Embassy will be canceled. The Consular Section will contact those with existing appointments to re-schedule. U.S citizens requiring emergency consular assistance can call 02-397-4114.
Emergency Assistance:
U.S. citizens in South Korea requiring emergency consular assistance after-hours can call 02-397-4114. For emergency assistance during business hours, please review our website (https://kr.usembassy.gov/services/) and send us an email SeoulInfoACS@state.gov. To contact the emergency line for the U.S. Department of State in Washington D.C., you may dial: +1 (888) 407-4747.
Citizenship and Passport Services:
Please visit our website for more information. If you have additional questions, please direct them to our consular service portal here .
