Seoul
South Korea has announced a travel ban for North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to escalating violence between government forces and the M23 rebel group. The ban, the highest Level 4 warning, will take effect today (Saturday), the foreign ministry said.
For other regions in the DRC, South Korea will maintain a Level 3 alert, advising its citizens to leave the area. The decision comes as intense fighting has been reported in Goma, the capital of North Kivu, where M23 rebels have captured key sites, including the airport, port, and a local army base.
DRC President Felix Tshisekedi has vowed a “vigorous response” to reclaim lost territory. His statement followed reports that the M23 rebels were advancing toward South Kivu province, raising concerns about further instability. The United Nations has warned of security and humanitarian risks, particularly in the absence of peacekeeping forces.
According to UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission, withdrew from South Kivu last year at the DRC government's request. Clashes have since erupted south of Minova, involving Congolese forces and allied militias. Reports also suggest that Rwanda’s military may have moved into the region, further complicating the situation.
The ongoing conflict has displaced thousands, worsening humanitarian conditions. South Korea's travel ban aims to ensure the safety of its citizens amid the growing crisis.