The government is considering providing its maximum level of support for Chile, which was hit by a magnitude 8.8 earthquake Saturday.

Specific numbers will be decided after conducting a comprehensive assessment of the damage there. Emergency rescue and medical teams and relief supplies will also be sent if Chile so requests.

The government has also began to confirm the damage sustained by ethnic Korean residents and companies in Chile.

Seoul issued an emergency order to its diplomatic missions in nations surrounding the afflicted area to guard against tsunamis spreading to Pacific coastal regions. The government has ordered maximum care for the safety of ethnic Korean residents and travelers in regions at risk.

The Korean Foreign Affairs and Trade Ministry also expressed through its spokesman condolences for Chile's heavy loss of human life and property damage and hope for a rapid recovery.