Natural Disaster Alert: Wildfires in Ulsan and Gyeongsang
Location: Republic of Korea
The Embassy is closely monitoring reports of wildfires in the Ulsan and Gyeongsang regions. The Republic of Korea has declared a state of national disaster as recent dry weather and strong winds have contributed to the wildfires. Additional wildfires could occur elsewhere due to dry weather conditions nationwide.
Wildfires have resulted in blocked or closed rail lines and highways in affected areas. Expect travel disruptions and limited visibility in areas near the fires. Smoke from the fires may also contribute to poor air quality.
ACTIONS TO TAKE:
U.S. citizens in Korea should monitor local news media and follow the guidance of government officials and local authorities. Avoid areas near wildfires, reconsider travel to affected areas, and make contingency plans to leave impacted areas, even if you do not plan to depart now. Obey all evacuation orders and depart impacted areas as soon as possible.
The Korea Forest Service webpage maintains updates and situation reports on the wildfires. For real-time emergency alerts in Korea, please follow the National Disaster and Safety Portal .
Ensure your information is up to date with STEP and advise any U.S. citizens that DID NOT receive this message to do the same.
EMBASSY OPERATIONS:
Consular operations (including visa interviews, passport interviews, and Consular Report of Birth Abroad application acceptance) will continue uninterrupted. U.S. citizens requiring emergency consular assistance can call 02-397-4114.
EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE:
U.S. Embassy Seoul
Telephone: 02-397-4114
SeoulInfoACS@state.gov
https://kr.usembassy.gov/services/
