S. KOREA'S MEASURES OVER U.S.-IRAN TENSIONS

[Anchor Lead]

With tension in the Middle East mounting, Korea's Foreign Affairs Ministry is looking at its options. Although calling back all Korean nationals home is not yet considered, the government is bracing for the worst possible situation.

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The top priority for the Korean government is ensuring the safety of Korean nationals in the Middle East, particularly in Iraq. As tension mounts in the Iraqi region, the government is focused on preparing countermeasures. However, officials believe it's not yet time to consider withdrawing Korean expats. Nonetheless, the government is on full alert and preparing for any possible scenario. According to the nation's top office, multiple measures are already in place to ensure safety of Koreans. It is also being briefed on the latest developments every hour, and is keeping a close eye on the situation. Starting with the National Security Council meeting on Monday, government-wide meetings have been held continuously to discuss countermeasures. The Foreign Ministry will oversee the safety of Korean nationals and, if the situation worsens, consider bringing them back home. Yesterday, minister Kang Kyung-wha held a video conference with the mission chiefs in the Middle East and asked for their proactive actions. The Ministry of Defense and Joint Chiefs of Staff also held an emergency meeting yesterday to discuss protection and transport measures for Koreans in the region in case of an emergency. The government also issued a level two travel warning, one notch up from the previous level, for most areas in Iran, including the capital Tehran. Seoul will maintain a 24-7 response system through a task force set up under the Foreign Ministry.