Canada has expanded its global travel alerts to include South Korea, joining countries like Argentina, Qatar, Australia, Japan, and Portugal, due to rising safety concerns and evolving political and security risks. South Korea’s upcoming presidential election and associated demonstrations, along with ongoing challenges in these other nations, have prompted Canada to advise travelers to exercise increased caution and stay well-informed when visiting these destinations.
The Canadian government continues to provide important travel advisories for Canadians heading abroad, reflecting evolving security situations worldwide. Most recently, South Korea has come under focus as the nation prepares to elect a new president in early June 2025. With expected demonstrations related to the election, the government urges travelers to exercise heightened caution while visiting the Korean Peninsula.
This cautionary notice forms part of Canada’s broader efforts to keep citizens informed about safety risks worldwide. Recent advisories have also been updated for destinations such as Costa Rica, Cuba, and Mexico.
On May 21, 2025, the Government of Canada issued a revised travel warning for South Korea in light of the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for June third. Although South Korea remains broadly safe for travelers, officials note that protests and demonstrations are likely before, during, and after the election, particularly in Seoul and other major urban centers.
Travelers to South Korea are advised to take precautions such as avoiding participation in protests or political demonstrations, contacting authorities in emergencies or to report crimes, downloading emergency apps, and being aware of civil emergency drills for natural disasters.
South Korea’s political atmosphere has been turbulent since December third, 2024, when former President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law nationwide. This move sparked immediate backlash from political parties and citizens, resulting in widespread protests. Martial law was lifted soon after, but the political fallout continued with Yoon’s impeachment by the National Assembly days later. The Constitutional Court upheld this impeachment on April first, 2025, officially removing Yoon from office and leaving the presidency vacant. South Koreans will elect their next leader on June third, 2025.
Additional regional travel advisories are in place for countries like Argentina, Qatar, Australia, Japan, and Portugal. These advisories highlight specific security risks and safety precautions for travelers in each country, ranging from petty crimes to political tensions and natural disaster preparedness.
Canada’s updated travel advisories underscore the importance of preparedness and vigilance when visiting destinations with evolving security landscapes. In South Korea, with political tensions peaking around the June presidential election, travelers should stay informed, avoid protests, and follow emergency protocols. Similarly, maintaining awareness of local risks and respecting official guidance in other countries will help ensure safer, more enjoyable international travel experiences.
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