July 3rd saw another successful defection attempt between the North Korean mainland and
one of the South Korean islands in the
West Sea.
An official with the
South Korean military explained the background to the crossing earlier today.
“An individual, who is presumed to be a North Korean civilian, expressed
his intent to defect on Baekryeong Island last night,” he said, adding, “The defector said that he had
come to Baekryeong Island on a wooden vessel.”
According to the
military, the individual requested protection upon arrival. The relevant
authorities are now conducting an investigation into what motivated his successful
defection attempt and the precise route by which it was undertaken.
The North Korean citizen
apparently conveyed his intent to remain in the South to the ROK Navy sentry who discovered him.
