Captured North Korean Soldier Expresses Desire to Defect to South Korea

A North Korean soldier, identified as Ri, expressed his desire to defect to South Korea during a conversation with lawmaker Rep. Yu Yong-weon. He inquired about the rights he could enjoy in Seoul and whether he would receive medical assistance for his injuries. Another soldier, Paek, is deliberating over his potential defection, highlighting the moral dilemmas faced by North Korean troops regarding capture.

A North Korean soldier, captured by Ukrainian forces, has expressed a desire to defect to South Korea. During a meeting with South Korean lawmaker Rep. Yu Yong-weon, the soldier, who went by the surname Ri, inquired about the possibility of living freely in Seoul and having access to rights. He expressed a strong wish to reunite with his parents and questioned whether he could receive medical care for his injuries in South Korea.

Ri, suffering serious injuries to his jaw and arm, conveyed his thoughts in a recorded conversation released by Rep. Yu. He voiced concerns about his future, asking, “If I go to (South) Korea, will I be able to live as I wish with the rights I hope for?” His longing for a normal life included desires for a home and a family. Additionally, another captured soldier named Paek indicated he required more time to consider defection.

During the interview with the South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo, Ri reiterated his intention to move to South Korea. The South Korean government has indicated its readiness to offer protection and assistance should Ri make a formal request for resettlement. In the conversation, Paek shared the grim reality faced by North Korean soldiers, indicating that many would consider suicide if captured. He mentioned the personal belief that becoming a prisoner equates to betraying their country.

Rep. Yu appealed to diplomatic channels, urging that all necessary measures be taken to prevent the forced repatriation of North Korean soldiers who have been captured during the conflict in Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of these individuals in the event of their defection.

In conclusion, the situation surrounding the captured North Korean soldier highlights the complexities of defection in wartime. Ri’s desire for freedom and medical care in South Korea underscores the profound difficulties faced by defectors. The South Korean government’s willingness to assist provides hope for those seeking a new beginning. Moreover, the concerns raised by Paek about the psychological toll on soldiers reveal the dire circumstances they endure.

Original Source: www.koreatimes.co.kr

About Sofia Nawab

Sofia Nawab is a talented feature writer known for her in-depth profiles and human-interest stories. After obtaining her journalism degree from the University of London, she honed her craft for over a decade at various top-tier publications. Sofia has a unique gift for capturing the essence of the human experience through her writing, and her work often spans cultural and social topics.

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