Press Releases 04~05

U.S. Department of State Consular Information Sheet on the Republic of Korea

August 2, 2004

Korean media reports today significantly misrepresent the content of the U.S. Department of State’s Consular Information Sheet on the Republic of Korea, quoting a civic organization by the name of VANK (Voluntary Agency Network of Koreans) as the source of the erroneous statements. In an effort to correct these extremely misleading stories, the U.S. Embassy is providing below the accurate version of the relevant section of the U.S. Information Sheet on the Republic of Korea. The full website can be found at:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/skorea.html

CRIME INFORMATION: Although the crime rate in the Republic of Korea is low, in major metropolitan areas, such as Seoul and Pusan, there is a higher incidence of pickpocketing, purse snatching, assaults, hotel room burglaries, and residential crime, and foreigners can be targeted. U.S citizens are more likely to be targeted in known tourist areas, like Itaewon and other large market areas. Incidents of rape have recently increased in popular nightlife districts in Seoul. Travelers should exercise caution when traveling alone at night and should use only legitimate taxis, such as black-colored cabs, or public transportation, such as subway or bus service. Americans should stay alert, be aware of personal surroundings and exercise caution. Travelers may reduce the likelihood of encountering incidents of crime by exercising the same type of security precautions they would take when visiting any large city in the United States.