South Korea: Increased security measures continue nationwide at least through mid-August amid isolated threats /update 2

Event

Sporadic and anonymous threats are continuing to prompt short-notice police operations at public places nationwide as of Aug. 17. A series of online posts threatening to carry out stabbings, bombings, and sexual assaults have prompted police to conduct search operations and evacuations at airports, government buildings, universities, and other public facilities since Aug. 7. Although previous threats turned out to be hoaxes, authorities have treated each threat seriously. Additional threats will likely continue to prompt increased security measures in the coming weeks. Threats typically target public places such as city halls, government buildings, transport hubs, shopping centers, entertainment districts, and airports.

Authorities will likely deploy additional personnel to locations targeted by online threats. Bomb threats typically prompt search operations and evacuations. Officials could also conduct pedestrian and vehicle checks. Security operations may result in localized transport and business disruptions.

Context

As of Aug. 14, authorities have arrested 164 people in relation to 383 online posts threatening to carry out stabbings, bombings, and sexual assault in public places. The online threats appear to be actions of lone individuals, and there is no indication of group involvement or coordination. The threats come after two mass stabbing incidents occurred in the past weeks. A stabbing incident in Seoul left one dead and three injured July 21, while a copycat stabbing incident in Seognam killed one person and injured 13 others Aug. 3. Authorities have arrested both suspects in the incidents.

Advice

Exercise caution in the affected areas. Plan for potential travel delays and business disruptions as a result of security operations. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks. Heed all travel and security advisories.