March 29, 2024
News

Seoul investigating reported defection of COVID-positive North Koreans to China

South Korean outlets say two defectors escaped Chinese authorities, while two of three caught tested positive for virus

South Korea’s unification ministry said Friday that it is looking into reports that five North Koreans recently crossed the China-DPRK border, with two escaping Chinese authorities while two of those caught tested positive for COVID-19.

The ministry is aware of the reports and is “making efforts with relevant government departments” to verify the facts, deputy unification ministry spokesperson Cha Duk-chul said, while adding that the ministry has not yet obtained corroborating intelligence.

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