Pastor freed in North Korea ‘on his way home’
Relatives of a Canadian pastor released this week after more than two years in a North Korean prison said Thursday he is “on his way home’’ and they are anxious to be reunited with him.
The Korean Central News Agency reported Wednesday that North Korea’s central court had decided to free Hyeong Soo Lim, who was serving a life sentence for anti-state activities.
The pastor’s release was described as “sick bail,’’ but no other details were given.
In a statement Thursday, a spokeswoman for his family said they look forward to his return.
“We are relieved to hear that Rev. Lim is on his way home to finally reunite with his family and meet his granddaughter for the first time,’’ Lisa Pak said on the family’s behalf.
“There is a long way to go in terms of Rev. Lim’s healing, therefore, in the meantime we ask the media for privacy as he reconnects with his loved ones and receives medical attention.’’
Pak also said the family is grateful to the Canadian government and the Swedish embassy in North Korea for working behind the scenes to secure the pastor’s freedom.