Ahn Hak-sop, a 95-year-old former North Korean prisoner of war, attempted to return to North Korea for what he referred to as his final journey, hoping to be buried there after spending decades in South Korea. On a recent visit to Imjingang Station, the last subway stop near the North Korean border, Ahn was met by a significant crowd, including police officers and activists. However, he was ultimately turned away, as the South Korean government stated they could not facilitate his passage in time.
Ahn, who suffers from pulmonary oedema, was unable to complete the 30-minute walk from the station to the Unification Bridge. He walked around 200 meters with the help of supporters, carrying a North Korean flag and addressing those present. During his statement, he expressed a desire for his body to rest in a land he considers “truly independent.”
Captured at the age of 23 during the Korean War, Ahn became a soldier in the North Korean People’s Army, believing the North would reunify the peninsula. He was detained for life after being captured by South Korean forces in 1953. Released over four decades later due to a special pardon, Ahn faced difficulties reintegrating into society due to his past.
In his life in South Korea, Ahn has maintained an unwavering belief in the North Korean ideology. In 2000, he declined an opportunity to return to North Korea, citing concerns over what he perceived as American imperialism influencing the South. His historical perspective is shaped by his childhood experiences under Japanese colonialism, which he views as having transitioned into American control post-World War II.
Throughout the years, Ahn has protested against what he considers ongoing colonial rule by the U.S. in South Korea, adamant about his political beliefs despite changing circumstances in both Koreas. He remains committed to his views on the reunification of the peninsula, continuing to criticize the actions of both the North and South.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1jnk1dr5pgo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss