Israeli forces intercepted the Kyriakos X boat carrying South Korean activist Kim Dong-hyeon on Monday evening as it headed toward the Gaza Strip. A civic group reported the seizure on Tuesday, stating that Kim and other activists are now presumed detained on an Israeli warship. The incident follows Kim's departure earlier this month despite a South Korean government travel ban on the territory.
The interception occurred at around 8 p.m. Monday Seoul time, according to the civic group advocating for Palestinian liberation. Kim is now believed to be held aboard an Israeli warship alongside activists from multiple countries.
A second South Korean activist, Kim Ah-hyun, is traveling on a nearby vessel that the group said remains at risk of similar interception. Kim Ah-hyun had previously been detained by Israeli forces during an October attempt to enter Gaza and was later released.
South Koreans require government approval to travel to or remain in Gaza. Violations can result in up to one year in prison or a fine of up to 10 million won under the Passport Act.
