The South Korean government has decided to grant up to 30 businesspeople special travel exceptions to visit Ukraine for potential reconstruction and recovery projects, officials and industry sources revealed on Sunday.
This move comes as part of Seoul’s effort to actively participate in helping to rebuild the war-torn country following its conflict with Russia. Companies from the infrastructure and other sectors have also expressed their support for the initiative.
The government has announced that the length of stay for the businesspeople will be limited to two weeks per trip, with applications for the travel exception being accepted by the foreign ministry this month. If the number of applicants exceeds the limit, they will be asked to adjust their departure times accordingly.
Many Korean companies are expected to explore opportunities in participating in the reconstruction projects, with those from the construction, infrastructure, utility and energy sectors showing particular interest.
Land Minister Won Hee-ryong is leading a government delegation to Ukraine later this month for talks on the rebuilding project with Kyiv officials. Additionally, the industry ministry is organizing its own delegation of energy and plant companies, who are scheduled to visit Ukraine in October.
President Yoon Suk Yeol’s surprise visit to Ukraine in July has further accelerated the efforts, during which he promised to provide a package of security, humanitarian and reconstruction assistance.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol (L) shakes hands with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after a joint press conference at the Mariinskyi Palace, the official residence of the president of Ukraine, in Kyiv on July 15, 2023, in this photo provided by South Korea's presidential office. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
elly@yna.co.kr
(END)