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Reviewed: 04 April 2013, 15:40 NZDT
Still current at:
20 May 2013
There is some risk to your security in the North-Western Islands (including Yeonpyeong-do, Daecheong-do and Baengnyeong-do) and surrounding waters due to tensions with North Korea and we advise caution.
Relations between South and North Korea are tense and this occasionally results in armed incursions by North Korea into South Korean territory. These incursions are most likely to occur in the North-Western Islands (including Yeonpyeong-do, Daecheong-do and Baengnyeong-do) and surrounding waters.
In November 2010, the North Korean military shelled the North-Western Island of Yeonpyeong-do, killing four people. In March 2010, the North Korean military sank a South Korean warship near the North-Western Island of Baengnyeong-do, resulting in 46 casualities. Further provocations (or reactions) cannot be ruled out.
General travel advice
Tensions on the Korean Peninsula could escalate with little warning so New Zealand visitors or residents are advised to monitor the media to stay informed of any developments and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities. On 4 March 2013, North Korea issued a statement saying it planned to nullify the Armistice Agreement with South Korea.
New Zealanders travelling or living in South Korea should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place.
New Zealanders in South Korea are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, or if already registered, update their details.
See our regional advice for North Asia
Other Countries' Travel Advisories
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Contact details are
Street Address Jeong-Dong Building, Level 8 (West Tower), 15-5 Jeong-Dong, Jung-Gu, Seoul 110-784, Republic of Korea
Postal Address KPO Box 2258, Seoul, 110-110, Republic of Korea
Telephone +82 2 3701 7700 Facsimile +82 2 3701 7701
Email nzembsel@kornet.net
Website New Zealand Embassy Website [external link]
Office Hours Mon - Fri 0900 - 1230, 1330 - 1730 hrs
