What’s the Status of Repatriating 59 South Koreans Detained in Cambodia?
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Synopsis
As South Korea continues to engage in vital discussions with Cambodia regarding the repatriation of 59 detained nationals involved in online scams, the situation remains tense. The joint response team emphasizes the importance of resolving technical issues before finalizing the repatriation plan. Stay informed as developments unfold in this urgent matter.
Key Takeaways
- 59 South Koreans detained in Cambodia over online scams.
- Ongoing discussions to finalize repatriation plans.
- Task force established at the embassy to address the crisis.
- Four individuals already repatriated this week.
- Government prioritizing the safety of its citizens.
Phnom Penh, Oct 17 (NationPress) South Korea is currently engaged in discussions with Cambodia to finalize the repatriation of 59 citizens detained due to involvement in online job scams, according to a joint response team that provided updates on Friday, following the announcement from Cambodian police regarding their deportation this week.
The response team, which is in Phnom Penh addressing crimes targeting South Korean nationals, indicated through a media statement that negotiations with Cambodian officials are still in progress to finalize the repatriation details, seemingly contradicting Cambodia's earlier statement, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
"We are working through some technical and administrative matters," the team conveyed. "At this moment, we cannot provide a departure schedule for the individuals involved."
Cambodian authorities mentioned on Thursday that the 59 Koreans in custody would be deported back to South Korea on Friday. These individuals include those rescued from online scams as well as others arrested on suspicions of involvement in fraudulent activities.
"Both parties are collaborating closely to ensure a prompt repatriation of the Koreans," the team further stated.
Earlier this week, four South Koreans out of a total of 63 detained were flown back home.
Officials from Seoul previously expressed intentions to have the detained individuals returned home by the end of the week.
Senior Superintendent General Park Sung-joo, head of the National Office of Investigation, was scheduled to meet with Cambodia's police chief to discuss the ongoing online scams later that day. Additionally, Second Vice Foreign Minister Kim Jina is set to meet with the Cambodian interior minister.
On Wednesday, the South Korean foreign ministry announced the establishment of a task force at its Embassy in Cambodia as part of extensive efforts to address the escalating job scam crisis involving the trafficking and abuse of South Korean citizens.
Park Il, a former ambassador to Lebanon, will serve as the de facto leader of the mission in Phnom Penh, overseeing matters related to the job scams, engaging closely with Cambodian authorities, and seeking their cooperation to resolve the issue, as stated in a ministry release.
The ambassador position in Cambodia has remained unfilled since the initiation of the Lee Jae Myung government, a situation critics attribute to what they perceive as the government's inadequate responses.
Park will fill this role until a new ambassador is appointed, according to the ministry's communication.
The task force will also comprise officials from various ministry departments, including consular affairs, development cooperation, and ASEAN bureaus.
Park, who previously oversaw a successful evacuation operation during the Israel-Hezbollah conflict that brought 97 South Korean nationals and their families home, is now tasked with tackling crimes aimed at South Koreans in Cambodia, especially following the public outcry over the brutal torture and death of a South Korean student.
Point of View
The commitment of South Korea to protect its citizens abroad is paramount. The establishment of a task force and the involvement of senior officials highlight the seriousness with which the government is addressing the online scam crisis affecting its nationals in Cambodia. The partnership with Cambodian authorities is critical to resolving these issues effectively.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the reasons for the detention of the 59 South Koreans?
The 59 South Koreans were detained due to their involvement in online job scams, which have been linked to trafficking and abuse.
What is the status of the repatriation talks?
Discussions between South Korea and Cambodia are ongoing, with a focus on resolving technical and administrative issues before finalizing the repatriation schedule.
What measures are being taken by South Korea to assist its detained citizens?
South Korea has launched a task force at its embassy in Cambodia, led by Park Il, to oversee the situation and collaborate with Cambodian authorities.
How many South Koreans have already been repatriated?
Earlier this week, four South Koreans were successfully repatriated back to South Korea.
What prompted the South Korean government to act?
The brutal torture and death of a South Korean college student have raised public concern, prompting the government to intensify its response to the crisis.
