A tsunami alert has been issued by the U.S. Embassy in Seoul following an 8.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia, on July 30, 2025. According to South Korean authorities, the impact on the Korean peninsula is expected to be minimal.
The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) has predicted that tsunamis resulting from the earthquake will likely reach less than 0.3 meters (1 foot) along South Korea’s coasts. The earthquake struck at approximately 08:24 KST.
"Those travelling to or residing near coastal areas are advised to comply with local authorities if directed to evacuate to higher ground. As the situation could change suddenly, particularly with potential for aftershocks, the U.S. Embassy encourages all U.S. citizens to exercise continued caution and follow all guidance from local authorities," stated the embassy.
U.S. citizens in Korea have been urged to monitor local news media and follow instructions from government officials and local authorities. Updates can be found through the Korean Meteorological Administration and U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center websites. Additional information about earthquakes is available via the U.S. Geological Survey’s Earthquake Hazards Program.
The embassy also reminded Americans in Korea to keep their contact information updated with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program), and encouraged those who did not receive this message to register.
Consular operations at the embassy, including visa interviews and passport services, will continue as normal at this time. For emergency consular assistance, U.S. citizens can call 02-397-4114 at any time or consult https://kr.usembassy.gov/services/ for further details during business hours.
Further questions about citizenship and passport services can be addressed through information provided on the embassy’s website or its consular service portal.