Canada has expanded its global travel alerts to include South Korea, joining countries like Argentina, Qatar, Australia, Japan, and Portugal, due to rising safety concerns and evolving political and security risks; South Korea’s upcoming presidential election and associated demonstrations, along with ongoing challenges in these other nations, have prompted Canada to advise travelers to exercise increased caution and stay well-informed when visiting these destinations.

The Canadian government continues to provide important travel advisories for Canadians heading abroad, reflecting evolving security situations worldwide. Most recently, South Korea has come under focus as the nation prepares to elect a new president in early June 2025. With expected demonstrations related to the election, the government urges travelers to exercise heightened caution while visiting the Korean Peninsula.

This briefing outlines the latest travel advisory for South Korea, practical safety tips for visitors, a summary of the current political climate following former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment, and important updates on security conditions in several other countries, including Argentina, Qatar, Australia, Japan, and Portugal.

New Canadian Travel Advisory for South Korea Amid Presidential Election Unrest

On May 21, 2025, the Government of Canada issued a revised travel warning for South Korea in light of the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for June third. Although South Korea remains broadly safe for travelers, officials note that protests and demonstrations are likely before, during, and after the election, particularly in Seoul and other major urban centers.

This cautionary notice forms part of Canada’s broader efforts to keep citizens informed about safety risks worldwide. Recent advisories have also been updated for destinations such as Costa Rica, Cuba, and Mexico.

Ensuring Safety for Visitors in South Korea

Travelers to South Korea are advised to take the following precautions:

• South Korean law forbids foreigners from participating in protests or political demonstrations. Visitors should avoid any such events to prevent entanglement in unrest.
• In case of emergencies or to report crimes, dial 112. Authorities provide English-speaking interpreters to assist non-Korean speakers.
• Tourists are encouraged to download the Emergency Ready app (available on Google Play and Apple’s App Store), which helps quickly contact emergency services and locate nearby medical facilities.
• Civil emergency drills for earthquakes, fires, and other natural disasters occur regularly, which may involve sirens and instructions to seek temporary shelter in safe locations such as metro stations.

Political Context: Martial Law and Impeachment in South Korea

South Korea’s political atmosphere has been turbulent since December third, 2024, when former President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law nationwide, suspending press freedom and banning political activities temporarily. This move sparked immediate backlash from political parties and citizens, resulting in widespread protests. Martial law was lifted soon after, but the political fallout continued with Yoon’s impeachment by the National Assembly days later.

The Constitutional Court upheld this impeachment on April first, 2025, officially removing Yoon from office and leaving the presidency vacant. South Koreans will elect their next leader on June third, 2025.

Additional Regional Travel Advisories for Travelers

Argentina:
Visitors should practice routine security awareness but remain cautious in specific regions. The Greater Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area has heightened risks related to petty crimes such as theft and muggings. In Rosario, travelers should be vigilant due to a recent increase in homicides connected to organized drug-related crime.

Qatar:
While Qatar remains generally safe, ongoing regional tensions in the Middle East could affect security, causing unpredictable developments like flight disruptions or airspace closures. Canadians traveling here should follow local authorities’ instructions and stay abreast of news reports.

Australia:
Violent crime rates are low, but petty crime including pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins is common in major cities. Tourists should secure personal belongings at all times and beware of online accommodation scams involving fraudulent rental listings. Demonstrations may occur and could turn violent, so avoiding protest areas is advised.

Japan:
Normal security measures apply. Travel and overnight stays remain restricted in areas around the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant due to radiation risks following the 2011 disaster. Visitors must observe all restrictions and guidance issued by Japanese authorities.

Portugal:
Small-scale thefts frequently target visitors in popular urban spots like Lisbon and Porto, particularly in busy tourist zones and on public transportation—especially on Lisbon’s tram routes 15, 25, and 28. Travelers should safeguard valuables, avoid displaying wealth, refrain from walking alone at night, and be cautious using ATMs in poorly lit locations.

Final Advice for Travelers

Canada has issued a new travel alert for South Korea due to expected election-related protests, joining Argentina, Qatar, Australia, Japan, and Portugal amid growing safety and security concerns worldwide.

Canada’s updated travel advisories underscore the importance of preparedness and vigilance when visiting destinations with evolving security landscapes. In South Korea, with political tensions peaking around the June presidential election, travelers should stay informed, avoid protests, and follow emergency protocols. Similarly, maintaining awareness of local risks and respecting official guidance in other countries will help ensure safer, more enjoyable international travel experiences.

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