North Korea repatriation efforts gained attention Thursday as 95-year-old former soldier Ahn Hak-sop formally requested the South Korean government help him return. Ahn, who attempted to cross the inter-Korean border earlier this year, asked to travel via China or Russia to North Korea.
Ahn served as a North Korean soldier during the 1950-53 Korean War and was arrested in the South in 1953 on anti-state charges. He spent 42 years in prison before release. Despite decades in South Korea, Ahn has not renounced his allegiance to North Korea. He is one of six elderly unconverted long-term prisoners who remain loyal to the North.
At a press conference in Seoul, Ahn said, “I will go to North Korea via Russia or China. How much longer can I wait?” His statement underscores his urgent desire for repatriation.
In August, Ahn and the other five unconverted prisoners formally submitted requests to the South Korean government. He later attempted to cross the border into North Korea but was stopped by soldiers.
A civic group advocating for his repatriation has submitted a new request to South Korea’s unification and foreign ministries. The group proposed facilitating Ahn’s journey via Russia’s Vladivostok or China’s Beijing, covering all expenses. It warned that Ahn may stage a protest by going to the airport with a ticket and passport if the government does not act.
South Korea’s unification ministry stated it supports North Korea repatriation in principle from a humanitarian perspective. A ministry official emphasized, however, that officials must confirm North Korea’s consent before proceeding with the process. The government continues consultations and reviews details, but North Korea has not yet responded.
Experts note that North Korea repatriation cases are sensitive and involve both diplomatic coordination and humanitarian considerations. The process requires careful verification of intentions from both governments, especially given the advanced age of the applicants.
South Korea will continue discussions with North Korea and closely monitor the situation. Advocates argue that timely action could resolve decades-long grievances of unconverted long-term prisoners while demonstrating humanitarian commitment.
North Korea repatriation remains a key focus as Ahn and others seek closure and the opportunity to return to their homeland after decades in the South.
