Overview

• The Unification Ministry confirmed the six North Koreans will be sent back as early as this week following their rescue in March and May.
• Seoul has notified the U.S.-led U.N. Command of its repatriation schedule and will carry out the handover regardless of any reply from the North.
• Military sources say the vessel from the East Sea will be repaired for the crossing while the damaged Yellow Sea boat will be discarded.
• To reduce risks of misinterpretation or accidental escalation, the Coast Guard will transfer the returnees to international waters before they board the refurbished boat.
• Officials describe the mission as a humanitarian gesture respecting the returnees’ wishes and a diplomatic overture to test prospects for renewed inter-Korean engagement.