U.S. Detained Pregnant Woman as Well... Security Chief: "We Knew from the Start, Cannot Confirm If Consideration Was Given"

Director Sungnak Wi Holds Press Conference on the 12th

The Presidential Office stated that it was aware from the outset that a pregnant woman was among the South Korean nationals who were detained and later released by U.S. immigration authorities in Georgia.

On the 12th, at a press conference held at the Yongsan Presidential Office, Sungnak Wi, Director of the National Security Office, was asked whether the detention of a pregnant woman, which is related to human rights issues, was handled appropriately. He responded, "We knew from the beginning that there were pregnant women and other women among those detained," and added, "It is also true that they were a special subject of discussion in our consultations with the U.S. side." However, he said, "We have not been able to confirm whether sufficient consideration was given to the pregnant woman."

Sungnak Wi, Director of the National Security Office, is holding a press briefing on diplomatic issues at the Yongsan Presidential Office on the 12th. Photo by Yonhap News

Director Wi pledged to prevent similar incidents in the future by establishing clear guidelines for the relatively accessible B-1 (short-term business) visa and ESTA, shortening visa issuance periods, and promoting the enactment of the Korea Companion Act.

When asked whether there had been any changes, such as U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick pressuring for a signature on the tariff negotiation document, Director Wi explained, "Since negotiations are still ongoing, I believe the statements exchanged at the negotiating table are more important than any public remarks," and added, "The tariff negotiations are being held in Washington."

Meanwhile, according to Director Wi, the Presidential Office received a report from the Consulate General on the morning of the 5th, one day after the crackdown on South Korean nationals on the 4th. Following this, President Lee Jaemyung instructed, "During the law enforcement process, the legitimate rights and interests of our citizens must not be violated. Our companies' economic activities must not be unfairly infringed upon. Respond with all available resources," Director Wi conveyed.