Russian-born Korean Studies Scholar Professor Lankov Arrested in Latvia

Russian-born Korean studies scholar Andrei Lankov, a professor at Kookmin University, has been arrested in Latvia, Russian outlet RBC reported on the 24th (local time).

RBC reported that in an interview, Professor Lankov said he had been arrested in Latvia and notified that he had been placed on his home country’s authorities’ blacklist.

Citing Latvian outlet Delfi, the report said that Professor Lankov was taken away by police while giving a lecture in the capital city of Riga.

Well known as a North Korea expert, Professor Lankov was reportedly preparing a lecture titled “North Korea - What the Power Elite Wants and Fears.”

The organizers of the lecture explained that immediately after his arrest, Professor Lankov was transferred to immigration authorities and is currently in a safe condition, waiting for a lawyer.

RBC added that the Latvian authorities have not disclosed the specific reasons for Professor Lankov’s arrest and detention.