South Korea Raises Travel Alert for Cuba Over Political Uncertainty

South Korea on Tuesday raised its travel alert level for Cuba from a Level 2 alert to a special travel advisory, the foreign ministry said. The special travel advisory sits above a Level 2 warning but below a Level 3 recommendation that urges citizens to leave unless travel is essential. The ministry said the change reflects uncertain political developments and deteriorating conditions in Cuba.

Prolonged electricity shortages have affected water supply, telecommunications, transportation and healthcare services, the ministry said. The measure followed a joint situation review meeting that included the foreign ministry and South Korea's embassies in Cuba, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. The foreign ministry in Seoul issued the announcement on May 19.