June 5 (UPI) — A South Korean naval crew rescued four North Korean sailors drifting near the eastern coast of the peninsula.
Seoul’s unification ministry spokesman Lee Duk-haeng told reporters at a regular briefing Monday a total of four North Koreans were traveling on two separate ships when they were found in the East Sea, local newspaper Herald Business reported.
“Our navy rescued one crew member on one ship on June 2, and three crewmembers on a second ship were rescued on June 3,” Lee said.
The ministry spokesman said the crewmembers are undergoing a “joint government investigation.”
“After the investigation, we will take steps in coordination with their wishes,” Lee said, referring to South Korea policy toward North Korean nationals rescued at sea.
North Koreans are offered an option to stay in South Korea or to return to the North to their families.
On May 27, South Korea’s coast guard rescued six North Korean sailors in the East Sea, who were returned last week to the North upon their request.
Each boat carrying three sailors was found “in distress” near the South Korean island of Ulleungdo and near the South Korean port city of Sokcho.
Lee also said North Korea has yet to respond to a South Korean invitation to attend an international conference in Seoul.
The invitation from South Korean lawmaker Chung Sye-kyun was regarding a conference to be held in late June.
Lee said a Russian delegation had delivered the invitation.
