Seoul National University Graduate School of International Studies Master's Student Myo Hein (33)
Passport Invalidated for 'Anti-Military Activities'
At Risk of Becoming an Illegal Immigrant... "Seeking Help from Korea"
Protesters during the Myanmar coup. Not directly related to the article content. Photo by Yonhap News
A Myanmar national studying in South Korea is facing the risk of becoming a refugee.
On the 21st, Yonhap News reported the story of Myo Hein (33), a Myanmar national enrolled in the master's program at the Graduate School of International Studies at Seoul National University. According to the report, Myo Hein visited Incheon International Airport on the 31st of last month to depart for field research necessary for his thesis.
However, he heard a troubling story from fellow nationals living as refugees in Mae Sot, Thailand, which borders Myanmar. The Myanmar military had invalidated Myo Hein's passport. They cited his history of 'anti-military activities' as the issue.
Myo Hein worked as a public relations officer at the Korean representative office of the National Unity Government (NUG), the interim government of Myanmar's democratic camp, from September 2021 to March last year. During that period, he voiced criticism against the Myanmar military through broadcasts, seminars, and other platforms.
He first connected with South Korea in 2012 while working at a manufacturing company in Yangsan, Gyeongnam, and at the Namdong National Industrial Complex in Incheon. After completing five years of work, Myo Hein returned to his home country but came back to South Korea the following year to begin his studies.
Myo Hein had planned to continue his studies in Australia after obtaining his master's degree, but due to the passport invalidation, he now faces the prospect of having to give up his dream.
After March next year, when his visa expires, he will be unable to renew it or apply for a residence or job-seeking visa. Ultimately, he will become an undocumented immigrant.
He appealed, "Without a passport, I cannot conduct field research necessary for my thesis," and added, "Even if I receive my master's degree, I cannot apply for another visa." He also expressed hope to receive assistance from the South Korean government.
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