North Korea has confirmed custody of Travis King in its first response to requests for information on the US soldier’s whereabouts.
The 23-year-old private reportedly dashed across the border from South Korea on 18 July while on a guided tour.
The UN Command said it would not give more details about Pyongyang’s response at this time as they did not want to interfere with the efforts to bring him home.
However, the reply indicates Pyongyang could be ready to start negotiating.
The UN Command, which polices the Demilitarised Zone, had sought information on Private 2nd Class (PV2) King using its direct phone line to the North Korean Army in the Joint Security Area.
The North Koreans had previously acknowledged the request but this is the first time they have responded, confirming the US solider is in their custody.
He is a reconnaissance specialist who had been in the army since January 2021 and was in South Korea as part of his rotation
