South Korea: Authorities enforcing heightened security measures at multiple locations in Busan, Seongnam, Seoul, and Uijeongbu as of Aug. 4

Event

Authorities are enforcing increased security measures at multiple locations in Busan, Seongnam, Seoul, and Uijeongbu as of Aug. 4 due to a series of online posts threatening to carry out stabbings Aug. 4-5. The locations are as follows:

• Office of the President, Seoul

• Gangnam Station, Seoul

• Hanti Station, Seoul

• Jamsil Station, Seoul

• Nonhyeon Neighbourhood, Seoul

• Ori Station, Seongnam

• Seohyeon Station, Seongnam

• Seomyeon Station, Busan

• Uijeongbu Station, Uijeongbu

Heightened security, including deployment of additional personnel, is likely in the affected areas over the coming days. Security operations may result in localized transport and business disruptions.

Context

Authorities reported a series of online posts threatening to carry out stabbings in Busan, Seongnam, and Seoul. This comes after two stabbing incidents occurred in the past two weeks. A stabbing incident in Seoul left one dead and three injured July 21, while another stabbing incident in Seognam left at least 14 people injured Aug. 3. Authorities have arrested both suspects in the incidents. Police have not identified any connection between the two stabbings and the online threats.

Advice

Exercise caution in the affected areas. Plan for potential travel delays and business disruptions in the affected areas. Heed all travel and security advisories.