Travis King returns to US after spending 2 months in North Korea. Here is full story behind scene
Travis King who crossed to North Korea from South Korea two months ago, has returned to the US. Confirming his arrival, an official with the US Department of Defense said that the private soldier landed in San Antonio early Thursday. In a statement issued Wednesday, Army spokesman Bryce Dubee said that Travis King could face future action from the Army, but for now, the focus is on his «well-being and privacy.»
Did North Korea make any demand?
State Department spokesperson Matt Miller said that Travis King was transported to the border between North Korea and China, where US ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns, received him. He also said that he did not know if Pyongyang had requested anything for King's freedom. Miller reiterated that the US had not made any concessions.
Sweden helps US
Sweden acted as an intermediary and facilitated the talks between North Korea and the US. This European country has served as the protective power for Washington in North Korea since 1995. The Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Swedish Embassy in Pyongyang provide consular assistance to US nationals in this country.
How did Travis King cross to North Korea?
Travis King was in South Korea when he crossed to the North. After being detained in a South Korean facility for 47 days for an assault, he was due to return to the US. He was escorted by US military officials to South Korea's Incheon International Airport on July 17. But instead of boarding the plane, he left the airport for the De-Militarized Zone between the two countries and crossed to North Korea, where he was arrested.
FAQs:
Q1. Who is Travis King and why is he in the news now?
A1. Travis King is a private soldier in the US Army. He has returned to the
