On the line: Lee Kang-geun, president of the Korean Association in Israel
As the conflict in the Middle East intensified, South Korean citizens and ethnic Koreans in Israel reached Egypt after a second overland evacuation.
The evacuation was carried out while Israeli airport operations were restricted.
We reached Lee Kang-geun, who accompanied evacuees on the convoy, for details.
Are you on the line?
「Question 1」 You crossed the Egyptian border and arrived in Dahab safely, correct?
「Question 1-1」 How many community members evacuated with you?
「Question 2」 You traveled roughly 400 km (about 249 miles) by bus. Crossing the Israel–Egypt border under these conditions must have been difficult. What route did you take?
「Question 3」 Israel has experienced multiple clashes of varying scale. Were these airstrikes different from previous incidents?
「Question 4」 You said the evacuation — difficult amid active hostilities — was conducted with vehicle and administrative support from South Korea’s embassies in Israel and Egypt. Can you confirm that?
「Question 4-1」 During the trip, did the Korean Associations in Israel and Egypt assist with lodging and meals?
「Question 5」 With Israeli airports operating under restrictions, you chose an overland route to a third country. Why select that option given the uncertainty over when flights would resume normal operations?
「Question 6」 Some nationals chose to remain in Israel based on local conditions. Are you maintaining communication with those who stayed?
「Question 7」 Authorities will need plans to ensure the safety of residents who remain and to support their return. What discussions are you having with local diplomatic missions?
Mr. Lee has been posting regular evacuation updates on social media. We hope he and the community remain safe until the conflict ends.
That’s all for today.
Thank you.
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Yoo Yeon-hee (rjs1027@yna.co.kr)
