South Korean construction in Libya disrupted

The uprising in Libya has caused disruption and damage to construction sites and equipment operated by South Korean contractors.

A total of 24 South Korean construction companies, including Hyundai Engineering & Construction, GS E&C and Daewoo E&C, are currently working on 53 infrastructure projects in Libya.

On 22 February, The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade (MOFAT) confirmed that another four South Korean construction sites had been stormed in Libya, leading to injuries and damage and theft of equipment and heavy machinery. At least ten construction sites have been breached to date.

MOFAT did not name the companies or infrastructure projects affected.

Libya is the third largest location for Koran construction companies operating oversees. In October last year, for example, Hyundai finalised a US$ 1.3 billion contract to build power plants in the North African nation.

Several Korean government agencies met with the International Contractors Association of Korea on 21 February to discuss setting up an emergency response centre to the situation.

MOFAT has called for all of the approximate 1400 South Korean nationals in Libya to evacuate the country, and advised those who plan to visit to cancel or postpone their trip.