The South Korean government is investigating the whereabouts of a North Korean defector couple who have disappeared in China, Seoul’s Ministry of Unification (MOU) confirmed on Monday.

In a response to reports by South Korean broadcaster TV Chosun on Sunday that two defectors had voluntarily returned to the North, ministry spokesperson Baik Tae-hyun said he could not confirm the redefection.

“The current situation is that they departed for China in mid-October and [the South Korean government] has lost contact with them,” Baik said. “And therefore, the relevant organizations are investigating it.”

The Korean National Police Agency (KNPA) also confirmed to NK News