A Korean-American citizen, Kenneth Bae, has been sentenced to 15 years hard labor for anti-state crimes.
Mr. Bae was detained in November last year. It was suggested at the time by the press that the reason he had been detained was that he was in possession of a disc containing photographs. Other potential reasons have since come to light from a variety of sources. The regime's media broadcaster, Chosun Central News Agency (KNCA), reported the outcome of the investigation into his alleged crimes. KNCA made no indication of what Mr. Bae's crimes were, so it is still unclear exactly what he has been accused of.
It is thought that Mr. Bae entered the country in Rason as the leader of a tour group. This version of events has been challenged with some suggesting he entered the country as a missionary. The exact purpose of his visit to the country is still unclear.
The U.S. State Department said it had no further details of Mr. Bae's conviction. A spokesperson called for the immediate release of Mr. Bae.
Sources: Daily NK, Guardian.
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