In South Korea, it is illegal to travel to dangerous countries. Journalists say it’s making their work impossible
Penalties for travel to blacklisted countries have recently risen, while aid workers and activists say they have also been caught up in the law
TL;DR
- Freelance photographer Jang Jinyoung was fined 5 million won for illegally visiting Ukraine, a country designated off-limits by South Korea's foreign ministry.
- South Korea is one of the few developed democracies that criminalizes visits to blacklisted countries, with penalties recently tripled.
- Critics argue the law unfairly impacts journalists, aid workers, and activists, hindering their ability to report on and assist in conflict zones.
- The government maintains the travel ban system is necessary to protect citizens' lives and safety.
- Jang is appealing his conviction and plans to challenge the law's constitutionality, advocating for a system where journalists notify authorities rather than seek discretionary permission.
- The travel ban system originated in 2007 after South Korean church members were seized in Afghanistan, leading to the designation of several countries as travel-ban areas.
- The law also allows the foreign ministry to invalidate passports without a criminal case, as seen with peace activist Kim Ahyun.
- Aid agencies and public interest lawyers contend the system is disproportionate, infringes on freedom of movement, and restricts international civil society activities.