Student’s regret after North Korea skirmish
Quizzed by guards after straying over the border
A Stirling University student risked a major diplomatic incident after accidentally crossing in to North Korea without permission.
Reece Kidd, who faced questioning from border guards from the rogue state, was said to have regretted his lack of judgment .
The 22-year-old was on a Scottish Government-backed scheme when he only just avoided being snared by border patrol guards.
Mr Kidd had been in China as part of the Saltire Scholar programme which gives young people subsidised work placements overseas.
The university student, from Northern Ireland, was in China last month and wanted to legally get as close as possible to North Korea – even though the Foreign Office advises UK citizens to stay away from the totalitarian state.
It was a time when tension over the development of North Korea’s nuclear weapons programme was growing and a short time before the country fired a missile over Japan causing international outrage.
The 22-year old posted a comical version of his brush with the totalitarian state on the website of Entrepreneurial Scotland, who organised the work placement for him in Dalian, China.
He had been on a speedboat trip with a Chinese family along the Yalu river, which marks its border with North Korea.
He wrote: “I accidentally crossed the North Korean border, sorry mum.
“Took a weekend break to Dandong, China, which is right beside North Korea, with the aim to get as close as legally possible since it seems to be the hip place to be right now.
“I was just enjoying the sun when the driver turns around the corner and we go right along the guard tower. I see some soldiers in the distance, resting beside the water.
“We drive right along beside them before pulling over. They are in North Korean uniforms,” he said.
Mr Kidd, who has bright blonde hair, was immediately identified as a foreigner.
He added: “Two thoughts passed my head: first, I don’t want to be trapped in a North Korean prison, secondly, I should have worn a cap.
“Thinking of a trip, from what I’ve seen it looks pretty chill. If you haven’t decided to go this summer maybe check it out.
“When I tell people I got into North Korean waters they are either really shocked or find it hilarious.
“I think it was a positive experience, especially now that it’s become a lot more dangerous. I’m happy I got to do it, even if it was accidental.”
After being quizzed by the North Korean guards, the computer science student was able to return to Dandong without further trouble.
A University of Stirling spokesperson said: “We are aware of this incident and understand that the student regrets his lack of judgement.
“As with all Saltire Scholars, he received a full safety briefing before travelling and understands his actions were below the standards expected on the programme. We are relieved that nobody involved came to any harm.”