Two members of North Korea's delegation to the Asian Games in Japan are seeking asylum, according to a report by South Korea's Monthly Chosun magazine. The individuals expressed a preference for asylum in Japan over South Korea and indicated they do not wish to return home.
The potential defection of North Korean nationals, particularly those associated with state delegations, highlights the risks faced by individuals seeking to leave the isolated country and can have diplomatic implications.
Two members of North Korea's delegation to the Asian Games in Japan are seeking asylum, according to a report by South Korea's Monthly Chosun magazine. The individuals, whose identities and positions were not disclosed, expressed a preference for asylum in Japan rather than South Korea and have communicated their intention not to return home.
The magazine cited a source identified as an official from Japan's Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office, who reportedly obtained the information through a connection to the pro-Pyongyang General Association of Korean Residents in Japan, known as Chongryon. North Korea sent approximately 180 athletes and officials to the Games, which opened on Saturday in Aichi-Nagoya. It remains unclear if their reported outreach will lead to a defection. Reuters could not immediately reach the Japanese government for comment.
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