Six American citizens were recently arrested in South Korea while attempting to send Bibles, rice, and US currency across the maritime border into North Korea. The arrests took place early Thursday, June 26, near Ganghwa Island, a known area for such activities.
Authorities apprehended the individuals, aged 20 to 50, at 1:03 a.m. as they launched thousands of plastic bottles into the sea. They face questioning for violating the nation's disaster and safety laws, with an interpreter assisting due to language barriers.
Ganghwa Island, less than 10 kilometers from the North Korean maritime border, is frequently used by non-profit and activist groups. They often dispatch materials like rice, dollar bills, K-pop USBs, and religious texts toward the North.
Last November, the South Korean government declared Ganghwa and other border zones as danger areas, warning these actions could provoke North Korea and destabilize the region. This policy shift followed escalating tensions and a propaganda exchange.
Previously, North Korea sent trash-filled balloons south, alleging retaliation for propaganda. Seoul responded by broadcasting K-pop and news via loudspeakers, which Pyongyang countered with disturbing sounds along the frontier.
South Korea's new president, Lee Jae Myung, has adopted a more conciliatory stance. His decision to halt border broadcasts prompted North Korea to cease its own transmissions the following day, aiming to de-escalate tensions.
Source: https://www.lindaikejisblog.com/2025/6/south-korea-arrests-6-americans-trying-to-send-bibles-to-north-korea-2.html