Why Did South Korea Summon the Cambodian Ambassador Over Job Scam Issues?
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Synopsis
In a shocking revelation, South Korea's Foreign Minister summoned the Cambodian envoy amid rising job scam concerns linked to a tragic death of a student. This escalates diplomatic tensions as the ministry urges improved safety measures for its citizens. Discover the latest developments in this alarming situation.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea upgraded its travel advisory for Phnom Penh.
- A South Korean student was allegedly tortured to death in Cambodia.
- Diplomatic tensions have escalated due to rising job scams.
- The Foreign Minister summoned the Cambodian ambassador directly.
- Cooperation between South Korea and Cambodia is being sought for improved safety.
Seoul, Oct 10 (NationPress) South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun summoned the Cambodian ambassador in Seoul on Friday to express outrage over the death of a South Korean student in Cambodia, which is linked to a fraudulent employment scheme. He urged for enhanced actions to combat the growing number of online scams and detentions affecting South Koreans.
The victim, a college student in his 20s, was allegedly tortured to death by a criminal syndicate in Cambodia back in August. According to reports from Yonhap News Agency, Cambodia's police cited cardiac arrest due to torture as the cause of death on the student’s death certificate.
Minister Cho conveyed his deep concerns to Ambassador Khuon Phon Rattanak, stressing the urgency of addressing incidents targeting Korean nationals in Cambodia.
He called for immediate actions to eliminate online scams and for proactive measures to ensure the safety of South Koreans in the region.
Cho specifically requested that the Cambodian government collaborate with Korean authorities to set up a 'Korean Desk' and enhance bilateral police cooperation to protect Korean citizens and ensure rapid responses when necessary.
It is rare for a foreign minister to summon a diplomat directly, indicating the government's serious concern regarding this incident.
The ambassador acknowledged the concerns raised by Seoul and assured that he would communicate them effectively to his home government, as stated by the ministry.
To safeguard its citizens, the ministry has raised its travel advisory for Phnom Penh from a Level 2 'Exercise Caution' to a special travel advisory as of 9 PM.
This special travel advisory, which is equivalent to Level 2.5 on South Korea's four-tier system, advises citizens to avoid traveling to Phnom Penh or to leave the area if they are already present. This advisory is effective for 90 days and may be extended if necessary.
South Korea is in discussions with Cambodian authorities regarding who will conduct the autopsy, with plans to carry out the procedure later this month. The student’s body has not been returned home for two months.
The victim, who had traveled to Cambodia on mid-July to attend an exhibition, was found dead on August 8. A week after his departure, his family received a blackmail call demanding 50 million won (USD 35,200), claiming that the student had caused trouble and needed to resolve it. After four days, communication with the blackmailer ceased, and he was discovered dead two weeks later.
Point of View
It's imperative to note the seriousness of the situation where South Koreans are becoming victims of scams in foreign lands. The government's swift action reflects a commitment to protect its citizens, and diplomatic channels must remain open to address these grave concerns.
NationPress
10/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the South Korean Foreign Minister to summon the Cambodian ambassador?
The Foreign Minister summoned the ambassador due to the death of a South Korean student in Cambodia, linked to an employment scam, raising safety concerns for Korean nationals.
What are the implications of the upgraded travel advisory?
The upgraded travel advisory urges South Koreans to avoid traveling to Phnom Penh or to leave if already there, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
What actions is South Korea taking to protect its citizens abroad?
South Korea is cooperating with Cambodian authorities to establish a 'Korean Desk' and improve police collaboration to enhance safety for its citizens.
How did the victim's family become involved with a blackmailer?
After the victim left for Cambodia, his family received a blackmail call demanding money, claiming their son had caused trouble there.
What is the current status of the victim's body?
The victim's body has not been returned to South Korea for over two months, as discussions about the autopsy are ongoing.
