During a press conference at the Blue House on 3/12, President Lee Jae-myung was questioned by a reporter about efforts to secure the release of South Korean citizens detained in North Korea. The reporter noted that American and Japanese nationals had been freed, yet more than 10 South Korean citizens remained held by North Korea.

"This is the first time I've heard about this issue," Lee responded, then turned to National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lac to inquire if South Korean citizens were indeed being held in North Korea.

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung at the press conference on 3/12. *AP*.

Wi confirmed there were instances of individuals entering North Korea and not returning, or being detained under undisclosed circumstances. "We need to establish the precise timeline," Wi stated.

President Lee further commented, "It appears this situation occurred some time ago, and we currently lack detailed information on the individuals involved." He added, "We will review and assess the situation."

The reporter subsequently pointed out that North Korean media had previously reported on cases of South Korean citizens detained within the country.

The South Korean Presidential Office confirmed today that North Korea arrested three South Korean missionaries and three North Korean defectors who had obtained South Korean citizenship, on various charges, including espionage, during the 2013-2016 period.

"The government will endeavor to resolve this issue by pursuing efforts to quickly resume inter-Korean dialogue," the office stated.

South Korea's Ministry of Unification, the body responsible for inter-Korean relations, last raised this issue with North Korea in 2018. Pyongyang responded that "relevant agencies are thoroughly reviewing this," but subsequently offered no further comment or action.

*Huyen Le (According to AFP, Korea Joongang Daily)*