South Korean Government Issues Travel Ban for Bokor Mountain, Bavet, and Poipet in Cambodia

The South Korean government has announced a travel ban on several locations in Cambodia, citing heightened security concerns and recent criminal incidents. On the 15th, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that, as of midnight on the 16th, travel warnings will be elevated to Level 4 (Travel Ban) for Bokor Mountain (Kampot Province), Bavet City, and Poipet City.

These areas had previously been under a Special Travel Alert, but the new Level 4 designation reflects escalating risks. Bokor Mountain notably became the site of an incident in August, where a South Korean national was found dead. Bavet City and Poipet City have been widely identified as hotspots for criminal organizations.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further cautioned that individuals who visit or remain in these areas may face penalties under relevant laws, including the Passport Act, due to the travel ban designation.

Additionally, the Ministry has issued a Level 3 (Departure Advisory) for Sihanoukville Province, which is also recognized as an area with a concentration of criminal groups. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and reconsider any travel plans to the region.

Other locations already under Level 2.5 (Special Travel Alert) will maintain their current status, while all other regions in Cambodia not under Level 3 or 4 alerts have now been assigned Level 2 (Travel Caution).

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on the public to exercise particular caution when traveling anywhere within Cambodia.

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=Yonhap News, Ministry of Foreign Affairs