Subject: Embassy Closed for Routine Services on May 29 Due to Large Funeral Crowds

The U.S. Embassy in Seoul is transmitting the following information through the Embassy's warden system as a public service to all U.S. citizens in the Republic of Korea. Please disseminate this message to U.S. citizens in your organizations or to other Americans you know.

The U.S. Embassy will be closed for all routine services on Friday, May 29, 2009, due to the funeral services for former Korean President Roh Moo Hyun at nearby Gyeongbok Palace and the City Hall area. We expect extremely large crowds, severe traffic congestion and possible disruptions, and a sizable police presence in the immediate vicinity of the Embassy. Embassy staff will be available for emergency consular services only.

The Embassy has no indication that the crowds assembling for the Presidential funeral services will pose any threat to Americans. Nonetheless, we always recommend as a matter of prudence that Americans exercise proper caution if within the vicinity of any large crowds. American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times. The Embassy will continue to keep the American community informed of any changes in the overall security situation.

Americans living or traveling in South Korea are also encouraged to register with the Embassy through the State Department’s travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/. Americans without internet access may register in person at the U.S. Embassy. Registration is a voluntary way of telling us that you, as an American citizen, are in Korea, whether for a long-term stay or for a short visit. In the event of an emergency, we use registration information to communicate with you. This could include a family emergency in which relatives in the United States request that the Embassy contact you.

For the latest security information worldwide, Americans should regularly monitor the State Department’s website at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the Unites States, or, for callers from outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

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