Expanding access to information in N. Korea is ‘key pillar’ of U.S. policy: U.S. envoy
By Song Sang-ho
WASHINGTON, Sept. 26 (Yonhap) — Increasing access to information in North Korea is a key pillar of Washington’s policy on the reclusive state, the U.S. special envoy for North Korean human rights said Thursday, noting “informed” people can help promote security on the Korean Peninsula and beyond.
Ambassador Julie Turner made the remarks during an online hearing that the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom held to discuss religious freedom in the North, North Korean refugees and policy options for the U.S. government.
“Access to information, including information about religion and the freedom of religion and belief, is a key pillar of our DPRK policy,” Turner said, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
“An informed citizenry in North Korea can help build stability and prosperity on the peninsula in the region and beyond,” she added.
This photo, taken on Oct. 18, 2023, shows Ambassador Julie Turner, the U.S. special envoy for North Korean human rights, speaking during a meeting with reporters in Seoul. (Pool photo) (Yonhap)
The ambassador also lambasted North Korea over the detention of South Korean missionaries, including Kim Jung-wook who was arrested in Pyongyang in 2013 and sentenced to hard labor for life on charges of spying for South Korea’s spy agency.
“The DPRK’s practice of unjustly detaining missionaries and perceived political opponents is a blatant attempt to curtail freedom of religion or belief, silence individuals and limit access to outside information,” she said.
Turner reiterated that the human rights situation in the North is “inextricably” linked to international peace and security.
“Food insecurity remain pervasive in North Korea, yet the regime invests billions of dollars in its weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs,” she said.
“Systematic repression is what allows the Kim regime to continue to develop these unlawful programs, in violation of numerous Security Council resolutions, and to act in increasingly provocative ways.”
She went on to say that addressing restrictions on religious freedom is a “fundamental” step towards guaranteeing security in the region.
The ambassador also underscored the U.S.’ interest in resuming dialogue with the North on “any issue without preconditions,” including human rights.
sshluck@yna.co.kr
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