The Washington PostThe Washington Post

U.S. soldier detained after intentionally crossing into North Korea

By Alex Horton

19 Jul 2023 · 4 min read

informed Summary

  1. A U.S. Army soldier is believed to be in North Korean custody after intentionally crossing from South Korea without authorization. Private 2nd Class Travis King is is the first American to be held in North Korea in nearly five years.

A U.S. Army soldier who intentionally crossed from South Korea is believed to be in North Korean custody, the Defense Department said Tuesday.

The service member "willfully and without authorization" crossed the military demarcation line during a tour, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told reporters at the Pentagon.

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