South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Saturday directed government officials to ensure the safety of South Korean nationals in Venezuela and to prepare emergency evacuation plans amid escalating tensions following a confirmed US military strike on the South American nation.

According to the presidential office, Lee issued the instructions after US President Donald Trump announced that American forces had carried out a large-scale military operation against Venezuela, during which President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were reportedly captured and flown out of the country. The operation has significantly heightened security concerns in the region.

A spokesperson for Cheong Wa Dae said President Lee emphasised the need for “thorough protection” of South Korean citizens currently residing in Venezuela and called for evacuation measures to be prepared in advance so they can be implemented swiftly should the security situation deteriorate further.

South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is scheduled to convene an emergency meeting later on Saturday to closely assess developments on the ground and determine appropriate response measures. The ministry has also established a dedicated task force to coordinate the protection of overseas nationals following the US strikes.

According to officials, approximately 70 South Korean nationals are currently staying in Venezuela, including around 50 in the capital, Caracas, where explosions linked to the US military action were reported. Authorities confirmed that no South Korean casualties have been reported so far.

The foreign ministry said it is working in close coordination with South Korea’s diplomatic mission in Venezuela to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of its citizens. Officials are also maintaining communication with nationals in high-risk areas and providing them with updated security advisories.

President Trump, in a post on his social media platform Truth Social, stated that the United States had successfully carried out a “large-scale strike” against Venezuela and its leadership. He said the operation was conducted in cooperation with US law enforcement agencies and added that further details would be provided during a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence.

The sudden escalation has prompted heightened concern among governments worldwide, particularly those with citizens living in Venezuela. South Korea’s move reflects growing international apprehension about the safety of foreign nationals and the potential for further instability following the US military action.

As diplomatic and security assessments continue, Seoul has reiterated that the safety of its citizens abroad remains a top priority and that it will take all necessary measures to respond promptly to any worsening of the situation in Venezuela.