The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is delaying the release of a statement regarding the situation in Iran and the safety of Korean residents, fueling public curiosity. [Photo=Yonhap News] 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is delaying the release of a statement regarding the situation in Iran and the safety of Korean residents, fueling public curiosity. 

In particular, there are voices questioning whether there is discrimination, citing the difference in reaction compared to when Maduro in Venezuela was arrested. 

At the time, the government issued a statement saying, "We are monitoring the situation in Venezuela and taking necessary measures for the safety of our citizens." There were also reports that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a second situation assessment meeting chaired by Vice Minister Kim Jin-ah to discuss safety measures. The number of Korean residents in Venezuela is currently estimated to be around 70. 

However, the number of Korean residents in Iran is similar to or slightly higher than in Venezuela, ranging from 70 to 100. Despite reports that the death toll from the indiscriminate crackdown by the Iranian government has exceeded 2,000, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not issued any statement or commentary. 

In a phone call with The Hankyoreh, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "We are closely monitoring the trends of the situation in Iran," and added, "We are providing information regarding the safety of our residents through our website and communicating with them via social media and emergency contact networks." 

Regarding an official statement, they stated, "It is a matter that requires comprehensive consideration, including political judgment, and is under review," adding, "There are no specific plans yet." 

Reporter Im Yo-hee