2 S. Koreans kidnapped in Haiti released safely: foreign ministry

Seoul's foreign ministry announced on Wednesday that two South Korean employees of a local company, kidnapped by a gang in Haiti, have been safely released after approximately a month in captivity. The incident occurred on July 31 when the duo were abducted in Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince, while on their way to work.

The first hostage was released on August 18, followed by the second on Tuesday. Both individuals are in good health, according to the ministry, which confirmed the news to reporters. Upon reporting the kidnapping to the South Korean Embassy in the Dominican Republic, the government swiftly established a task force and collaborated closely with Haitian authorities to ensure their secure release.

The kidnapping took place amidst growing security concerns in Haiti, where criminal groups exert considerable control over various regions of the nation. South Korea has classified Haiti as a travel-ban country since May 2024, requiring South Koreans to obtain special permission to use their passports while residing in the country. The two South Koreans had obtained such permission for business purposes and had been residing in Haiti.

Haiti has experienced similar incidents involving South Koreans. In 2005, a South Korean businessman was kidnapped and released three days later. In 2021, a missionary couple and three other foreign nationals were abducted and freed 17 days later.