Seoul: South Korea on Tuesday raised its travel alert level for Cuba from a Level 2 alert to a special travel advisory, citing uncertain political developments surrounding the Caribbean island nation, the foreign ministry said. The special travel advisory is part of South Korea's five-tier travel alert system and corresponds to a level above a Level 2 warning but below a Level 3 recommendation urging citizens to leave the country unless travel is essential.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the ministry stated that the move also reflects deteriorating conditions in Cuba, including prolonged electricity shortages affecting water supply, telecommunications, transportation, and healthcare services. These conditions have raised concerns about the safety and well-being of South Korean citizens in Cuba.
The measure was decided after a joint situation review meeting involving the ministry and South Korea's Embassy in Cuba, as well as those in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. This collaborative approach underscores the seriousness with which South Korea is addressing the evolving situation in Cuba, ensuring that its citizens are informed and protected.