North Korean men rescued in the West Sea await repatriation
Two North Korean men who were adrift in the West Sea and rescued by our military on July 7 are currently staying at facilities managed by the Republic of Korea's authorities, awaiting repatriation.
However, they are exhibiting unexpected behaviors, such as refusing to shower by stating, "I won't use the water of South Korea," and not watching the TV in their accommodation at all. The relevant department is displaying a perplexed demeanor in light of these circumstances.
The Kim Jong-un regime has emphasized 'people-first' as its core governing ideology.
Despite the fact that these two North Korean residents have been waiting for more than a month and a half to return to their homeland in the Republic of Korea, the North Korean authorities have remained entirely unresponsive.
It's been over a month since our government requested discussions on repatriation procedures through the United Nations Command, yet North Korea has not provided any response.
As North Korea's silence continues, these two have been waiting for nearly 50 days at a facility in Incheon.
The Ministry of Unification, which is responsible for their protection, is feeling troubled by both North Korea's attitude and the 'unexpected behaviors' of the North Korean residents in custody.
They have not showered so far, asserting that "I won't wash with South Korean water," and they have not turned on the TV in their accommodation, stating, "I won't watch the rotten capitalist propaganda."
Instead, it is reported that they are diligently eating the meals and snacks provided by the Ministry of Unification, showing their determination to return to their 'homeland' in good health.
Authorities believe that their behaviors point to a desire to portray a 'resistance struggle’ to avoid facing disadvantages upon returning to North Korea.
The government is considering various measures, including publicly urging North Korea for a response through the media or notifying of the repatriation plan via loudspeakers at Panmunjom.
Naver TV 'Yonhap News TV'
Image source: Captured from Yonhap News TV, Minister of Unification Kim Yeong-ho / News1
