North Korea, it seems, is trying to send signals to America that it is ready to release U.S. citizen Kenneth Bae, who was convicted on charges of planning to overthrow the government, former envoy to the country said.
Washington's former top negotiator with North Korea Joseph DeTrani said that Bae's press conference with foreign media shows that the North Koreans were inviting an American push for his release, and want an envoy to visit Pyongyang, the Washington Times reports.
The State Department is likely now working the diplomatic back channel to Pyongyang through North Korea's representatives at the United Nations in New York, DeTrani said.
Bae was sentenced to hard labor more than a year ago after being convicted of crimes against state.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app