How is South Korea Working to Repatriate 60 Nationals Detained in Cambodia?
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Synopsis
South Korea's National Security Advisor announces efforts to repatriate 60 nationals detained in Cambodia amidst rising public concern over job scams and a tragic death of a student. A government response team is dispatched to ensure the safety of its citizens and to seek cooperation from Cambodian authorities.
Key Takeaways
- 60 South Koreans detained in Cambodia due to job scams.
- Government response team dispatched to ensure their safety.
- Public outrage following the death of a Korean student.
- Investigations to follow upon repatriation.
- Need for increased vigilance against overseas job scams.
Seoul, Oct 15 (NationPress) South Korea's National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lac announced on Wednesday that measures are being implemented to repatriate approximately 60 Korean individuals held by Cambodian authorities due to job fraud allegations by this weekend. This initiative follows the formation of a joint response team that is scheduled to travel to Phnom Penh to tackle crimes aimed at Koreans, a reaction to the public's outrage over the horrific torture and death of a Korean student.
Wi informed the media that 63 Korean suspects are currently in custody after being detained during a crackdown on job scams by Cambodian law enforcement. Additionally, Seoul's foreign ministry revealed that about 80 Koreans associated with job scams in Cambodia are unaccounted for, with their safety still uncertain.
"Our primary goal is to facilitate the return of around 60 Koreans detained by Cambodian authorities. It is crucial to remove them promptly from the crime scene," Wi stated.
"We are striving to have them repatriated by this weekend," he added.
Upon their return to Korea, these individuals will face investigations and potential legal actions depending on their involvement, as they are part of a larger group of several thousand who have been apprehended due to Cambodia's recent crackdown on criminal activities, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
A government response team is also set to depart for Cambodia on Wednesday, amid growing concerns over job scams involving the trafficking, torture, and detention of South Koreans, triggered by public shock following the brutal death of a South Korean college student.
The team, comprised of officials from the foreign ministry, police, and intelligence agency, is expected to engage with senior Cambodian government officials to discuss the crimes and request their cooperation in repatriating South Korean nationals.
This situation has become a critical issue for Seoul as it faces increasing public scrutiny for neglecting the plight of its citizens and allowing them to become victims of escalating violent crimes.
The response team, led by Second Vice Foreign Minister Kim Ji-na, intends to call on Cambodian authorities for assistance in investigating the death of the student, who reportedly died following severe torture.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight that the safety of South Korean citizens abroad remains a top priority. The swift response from the government reflects an understanding of the urgency required in addressing the issues faced by our nationals in Cambodia. The call for cooperation with Cambodian authorities is crucial in ensuring justice and security for all involved.
NationPress
15/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation with South Koreans in Cambodia?
Approximately 60 South Koreans are detained in Cambodia due to job scams, with the South Korean government actively working for their repatriation.
What actions is the South Korean government taking?
The government is dispatching a joint response team to Cambodia to address the situation and engage with Cambodian officials for cooperation in repatriating its nationals.
Why is this issue receiving public attention?
Public outrage has grown following the torture and death of a South Korean student, prompting the government to take urgent action.
What happens to the repatriated individuals upon return?
Upon returning to South Korea, the detained individuals will undergo investigations and possible legal actions based on their involvement in the scams.
How many South Koreans are still unaccounted for in Cambodia?
About 80 South Koreans linked to job scams in Cambodia are currently missing or their safety cannot be confirmed.
