An anonymous South Korean government official revealed today that the government is investigating the identifications of two individuals put forward as possibly among the four that North Korea reported on February 26th it was holding in detention accused of illegal entry.

Regarding press reports that Seoul had confirmed the identities of 3 of the individuals being held in the North, he explained, “During a discussion with a North Korean businessman, the government received tip-offs about the identities of two individuals. However, the government also announced that they weren’t sure whether these individuals were among the 4 individuals announced by North Korea.”

He went on, “We also received an additional tip-off about one individual, however we aren’t sure whether the individual is in North Korea or not.”

“Unless North Korea makes an announcement, we can’t be sure whether any of these individuals are among the four people being held,” he concluded.

During the working-level talks between North and South Korea held at Kaesong Industrial Complex on March 2nd, the North Korean delegate explained, “This matter is being investigated by the relevant agency and it will require some time. When a final confirmation is made, we will notify South Korea.”