Korea sees limited impact from Middle East tensions, stays vigilant

Korea has seen limited impact from the Middle East tensions on its economy but will continue to closely monitor the situation and take proactive measures if necessary, the presidential office said Tuesday.

Korea has seen limited impact from the Middle East tensions on its economy but will continue to closely monitor the situation and take proactive measures if necessary, the presidential office said Tuesday.

National Security Advisor Shin Won-sik and Sung Tae-yoon, the presidential chief of staff for policy, convened a meeting with senior government officials to assess the impact of rising tensions in the Middle East on the domestic economy and security.

The participants said the crisis has so far had limited effects on the domestic financial market, as well as the supply of crude oil, gas and maritime logistics, but vowed to keep a close watch on the situation to take proactive measures when necessary.

They also reviewed the security of Korean residents, companies, troops and embassies in the region and discussed possible diplomatic solutions, including their evacuation plans in case of an emergency.

Israel's military said it launched airstrikes against Hezbollah sites in Lebanon on Monday, which Lebanese authorities said killed 492 people and sent tens of thousands fleeing for safety in the country's deadliest day in decades.

Yonhap