Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung on Sunday ordered the establishment of an emergency response system led by the prime minister to address any issues arising from the crisis in the Middle East during his ongoing trip to Southeast Asia, the presidential office announced. The directive was given shortly before President Lee embarked on his journey to Singapore and the Philippines, as stated by presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the president also instructed officials to keep him informed about the government's responses to the Middle East situation and its potential economic impacts. He emphasized the need for "utmost" precautions to ensure the safety of Koreans residing in the affected region. This directive follows a recent joint U.S.-Israeli strike against Iran, which reportedly resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The presidential office, Cheong Wa Dae, expressed its hope for the prompt restoration of stability and peace in the Middle East. It also mentioned that "various measures" are being taken to ensure the safety of Koreans overseas, reflecting the government's proactive stance in light of the unfolding events.