Following a U.S. military operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, South Korea has called on all parties to ease regional tensions and restore stability through dialogue. The foreign ministry expressed hope for the restoration of democracy and respect for the Venezuelan people's will, while bolstering measures to protect nationals abroad. Around 70 South Korean nationals are in Venezuela, with no casualties reported so far.
On January 3, 2026 (local time), the United States launched a large-scale military strike against Venezuela, capturing President Nicolas Maduro. U.S. President Donald Trump posted a photo of Maduro on Truth Social, stating that special operations forces seized him from a safe house near Caracas after disabling parts of the capital's electrical systems. The operation, dubbed "Absolute Resolve," led to charges against Maduro in the U.S. for narco-terrorism.
Venezuela declared a national emergency and mobilized its troops, vowing to resist the U.S. intervention, which it claims aims to oust Maduro and seize the country's vast oil reserves. Trump announced that the U.S. would assume temporary control to facilitate a proper transition.
In response, South Korea acted swiftly. On January 3, President Lee Jae Myung instructed officials via a Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson to "ensure the thorough protection of South Korean nationals in Venezuela and meticulously prepare evacuation plans so they can be swiftly carried out if the situation worsens." The foreign ministry held an emergency meeting led by Second Vice Minister Kim Jina, establishing a task force for overseas nationals' protection and coordinating with its mission in Venezuela. Approximately 70 South Koreans are in the country, including 50 in Caracas, with no casualties reported.
On January 4, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement: "Our government is closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela and urges all relevant parties to make efforts to alleviate regional tensions." It added, "We hope that democracy will be restored in Venezuela, the will of the Venezuelan people will be respected, and the situation will stabilize as quickly as possible through dialogue." South Korea is taking all necessary measures to safeguard its nationals.
The incident has heightened geopolitical tensions in South America, drawing international attention.
