Seoul: The foreign ministry has once again urged its nationals residing in Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon to promptly leave these countries, highlighting the escalating conflict in the region that poses significant safety risks. This renewed advisory comes amid growing concerns of a potential wider ground offensive.

According to Yonhap News Agency, there are currently hundreds of South Koreans present in the region, with approximately 240 in Iraq, 120 in Lebanon, and around 40 in Iran. Despite the volatile situation, no casualties or damages involving South Koreans have been reported to date.

An official from the ministry emphasized the increasing risk in these areas, stating, "We remain concerned about the safety of our citizens in high-risk areas. As the risk is rising in Iraq, Iran, and Lebanon, we once again strongly advise our nationals and businesspeople in those countries to depart at the earliest possible time."

The majority of South Koreans in Iraq are businesspeople employed by construction companies, while those in Lebanon are primarily missionaries. In Iran, many are part of multicultural families. The official also highlighted the potential threat to U.S. allies' personnel or assets, noting the proximity of the U.S. and South Korean embassies, which are located about 500 meters apart.