A North Korean soldier captured by Ukraine has voiced a strong interest in defecting to South Korea, asking whether he could live freely and reunite with his family. The South Korean government has shown willingness to assist him. Meanwhile, another soldier is deliberating his choice of defection, highlighting the deep emotional and moral dilemmas faced by North Korean troops in conflict situations.
A North Korean soldier, identified only by his surname Ri, has expressed a desire to defect to South Korea after surviving capture by Ukrainian forces. In a recent statement made by South Korean lawmaker Yu Yong-weon, Ri inquired about the possibility of living freely in Seoul, highlighting his hopes for personal rights and a family. He also shared a profound wish to reunite with his parents and undergo surgery for his injuries sustained during combat.
During a press conference, Rep. Yu Yong-weon detailed his discussions with Ri, which were recorded in a 70-minute audio clip. Yu reported that Ri, who suffered severe injuries to his jaw and arm, struggles with speech. Another soldier captured alongside Ri, identified by his surname Paek, expressed hesitance regarding the decision to defect.
Ri divulged to the lawmaker, “If I go to (South) Korea, will I be able to live as I wish with the rights I hope for?” This inquiry reflects his deep concerns about the future he envisions in South Korea. Furthermore, he noted potential willingness to cooperate with the South Korean government, which has indicated it would provide safety and assistance upon his request to relocate.
Paek, however, is still contemplating his choices, reflecting the inherent dilemma faced by North Korean soldiers regarding capture. He recounted instances where soldiers, fearing betrayal, opted for self-destruction over capture. He stated, “I have seen it many times, and when I was injured and fell to the ground, I myself had a grenade for self-destruction.”
The lawmaker emphasized the importance of international awareness and support, urging the South Korean government to protect the captured soldiers from forced repatriation to North Korea. This issue underscores the complex geopolitical narrative involving North Korea and its soldiers who find themselves in dire circumstances abroad.
In conclusion, the captured North Korean soldier Ri has expressed a strong desire to defect to South Korea, seeking personal rights and family reunification. His inquiries underscore the harsh realities faced by soldiers in conflict zones, where the choice between life and perceived betrayal looms large. The situation has prompted calls for the South Korean government to support and protect these individuals amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Original Source: www.koreatimes.co.kr
