What Steps Is South Korea's Foreign Ministry Taking Regarding the Cambodia Scam Crisis?
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Synopsis
In a proactive approach, the South Korean foreign ministry convened a crucial meeting to address the alarming rise of online job scams affecting its nationals in Cambodia. With concerted efforts and a commitment to enhancing consular support, the ministry aims to safeguard its citizens amid growing concerns over these fraudulent activities.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea is actively addressing the issue of online job scams targeting its nationals in Cambodia.
- Efforts include establishing a joint task force with Cambodian authorities.
- Increased consular support and resources are being allocated to assist victims.
- 58 suspects have been identified and are facing arrest in connection with these scams.
- The investigation covers various regions and types of scams affecting South Koreans.
Seoul, Oct 21 (NationPress) The foreign ministry of South Korea announced on Tuesday that it convened a meeting with its embassy in Cambodia to assess the circumstances surrounding Korean citizens embroiled in online job scams.
The session, presided over by Second Vice Foreign Minister Kim Jina, was part of Seoul's intensified efforts to combat crimes targeting South Koreans in the Southeast Asian nation, amidst escalating worries regarding the increasing number of individuals who have either fallen prey to or engaged in these scams.
Kim instructed the Korean embassy in Cambodia to maintain ongoing discussions with Cambodian authorities regarding the operational protocols for a bilateral joint task force, which had been agreed upon by both nations the previous week.
She also emphasized the necessity for timely and proactive consular support to safeguard South Korean citizens in Cambodia, promising assistance to alleviate the embassy's responsibilities through temporary staffing increases and additional funding.
Park Il, who is currently leading the embassy in Phnom Penh as the acting head of the mission, stated his commitment to establishing a framework to deliver continuous support for South Korean victims and to enhance prevention and response measures for nationals in the region, according to the ministry.
On October 20, South Korean Police announced that they had requested arrest warrants for 58 suspects repatriated from Cambodia due to their alleged participation in various online scams.
A total of 64 suspects were returned to their home country from Cambodia on Saturday, with one suspect being arrested immediately pursuant to a pre-issued warrant.
Of the remaining 63 suspects, four were released shortly thereafter, while one individual was let go when the prosecution declined the police's request for an arrest warrant, as reported by the National Police Agency (NPA).
Regionally, 45 suspects are under the jurisdiction of the NPA’s South Chungcheong Province office, while the North Gyeonggi Province office is handling 15 cases, including those already released.
The remaining four suspects are being investigated by the Daejeon, Gimpo, and Wonju offices, along with Seoul's Seodaemun office.
The South Chungcheong office has been probing romance and other scams that occurred from late last year to last July, while the North Gyeonggi office has been investigating romance scams that transpired between March and April.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the gravity of the situation concerning South Koreans in Cambodia. The foreign ministry's proactive measures reflect a strong commitment to protecting citizens against online scams, showcasing both the government’s responsibility and the urgent need for international cooperation in addressing these transnational crimes.
NationPress
21/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the meeting held by South Korea's foreign ministry?
The meeting aimed to assess the situation concerning South Korean nationals involved in online job scams in Cambodia and to discuss necessary protective measures.
How many suspects have been repatriated from Cambodia?
A total of 64 suspects have been repatriated from Cambodia, with 58 facing arrest warrants for their alleged involvement in online scams.
What steps is the South Korean embassy in Cambodia taking?
The embassy is engaging in consultations with Cambodian authorities to establish a bilateral joint task force and is committed to providing ongoing support for South Korean victims.
What types of scams are being investigated?
Investigations are focused on romance scams and other fraudulent activities that have affected South Korean citizens.
How is the South Korean police responding to the issue?
South Korean police have sought arrest warrants for suspects and are conducting investigations through various regional offices.
