Why Does a 95-Year-Old Korean POW Want to Return to North Korea?

Ahn Hak-sop, a 95-year-old former North Korean prisoner of war, made a poignant attempt to return to North Korea for his final resting place, highlighting the complex history of the Korean Peninsula. Despite his efforts, he was denied entry by South Korean authorities, reflecting ongoing tensions in the region.

Last updated: 01 November 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Ahn Hak-sop attempted to return to North Korea after decades in South Korea.
• His life story encapsulates the turbulent history of the Korean Peninsula.
• South Korean authorities prevented his crossing, citing insufficient time for arrangements.
• Ahn's views on the US and South Korean government highlight ongoing ideological divides.
• The relationship between North and South Korea has fluctuated over the decades.

A Journey to Reunification

On a blistering morning earlier this week, an unusually large crowd gathered at Imjingang Station, the last stop on Seoul's metropolitan subway line closest to North Korea. Among the crowd were dozens of activists, police officers, and supporters, all focused on one man: Ahn Hak-sop. At 95 years of age, Ahn was making what he called his "final journey" to North Korea, seeking to be buried in his homeland after spending the majority of his life in South Korea against his will.

The Denial of Entry

Despite his emotional plea, Mr Ahn's journey ended in disappointment. South Korean authorities turned him away, stating they did not have enough time to arrange his crossing. Weakened by pulmonary oedema, he could not complete the 30-minute walk from the station to the Unification Bridge, a crucial passageway to the North. Instead, he stepped out of the car about 200 metres from the bridge, aided by two supporters as he walked the final stretch on foot.

The Symbolism of a Flag

As he approached the gathering crowd, he held a North Korean flag—an unusual and striking sight in South Korea. This act was laden with significance, representing his unwavering belief in the ideology he adhered to throughout his life. "I just want my body to rest in a truly independent land," he expressed, yearning for a homeland free from what he referred to as imperialism.

A Life Marked by Conflict

Ahn's life story is deeply intertwined with the history of the Korean Peninsula. Born in 1928 in Ganghwa County during Japan's colonial rule, he was taken captive by South Korean forces in 1953, just months before the Korean War's armistice. Initially a high school student, Ahn joined the North Korean People's Army, believing in the cause of reunification led by Kim Il-sung. His subsequent capture led to a life sentence, from which he was released only 42 years later through a special pardon.

The Struggles of a Returnee

Upon his release, Mr Ahn faced significant challenges reintegrating into society. Labeled a "redhead" due to his communist sympathies, he struggled to find work and felt ostracised from the community. "The government didn't help much at first," he recounted, explaining how agents followed him for years. Despite marrying and fostering a child, he never felt a true sense of belonging in South Korea.

Choices and Consequences

In 2000, when offered a chance to return to North Korea alongside other former prisoners, Ahn chose to stay. His optimism for improved inter-Korean relations and his fear of being seen as yielding to American influence were central to his decision. He believed that leaving would signify an acceptance of US military governance in the South, an idea he could not reconcile with his conscience.

The Ideological Divide

Ahn’s perspective on the US-South Korean alliance reflects a broader ideological divide. He has consistently viewed the US presence in South Korea as a form of colonialism, claiming it impedes genuine reunification. His strong belief in the North's narrative, that American influence remains the primary obstacle to reunification, illustrates the enduring impact of propaganda on individual perspectives.

Historical Context: The Korean Peninsula

The Korean Peninsula's history is marked by conflict and division. After Japan's colonial rule ended in 1945, the peninsula was divided at the 38th parallel, with the Soviet Union controlling the North and the United States overseeing the South. This division laid the groundwork for the Korean War, which solidified the separation of the two nations. Ahn's belief that the South provoked the war is shared by many in North Korea, as propaganda has long framed the narrative of victimhood.

Life Before and After Capture

During his time in North Korea, Ahn experienced the harsh realities of life as a prisoner of war. He was subjected to numerous attempts to force him into renouncing his beliefs through "conversion," which he adamantly resisted. His refusal led to prolonged suffering, which he described as "endless humiliation, torture, and violence." His testimonies have been corroborated by various investigations into human rights abuses within South Korean prisons.

Changing Times: North and South Korea

Since Ahn's capture, both North and South Korea have undergone significant changes. North Korea, now under the leadership of Kim Il-sung's grandson, has developed into a reclusive dictatorship facing economic hardships. In contrast, South Korea has transformed into a thriving democracy and an economic powerhouse. The relationship between the two nations has fluctuated, swinging between hostility and attempts at dialogue.

Enduring Beliefs

Despite the changes surrounding him, Ahn's beliefs have remained steadfast. He has dedicated the last three decades to protesting what he sees as ongoing colonialism perpetrated by the United States in South Korea. "I lived under Japanese colonial rule all those years. But I don't want to be buried under [American] colonialism even in death," he declared, emphasising his unwavering conviction.

The Future of the Korean Peninsula

Ahn Hak-sop's story serves as a poignant reminder of the complex and often painful history of the Korean Peninsula. As inter-Korean relations continue to evolve, the impact of individual narratives—like Ahn's—will remain essential in understanding the broader conflict. The search for reunification is fraught with challenges, not least the deeply entrenched ideologies that exist on both sides of the divide.

FAQs

Who is Ahn Hak-sop?

Ahn Hak-sop is a 95-year-old former North Korean prisoner of war who attempted to return to North Korea to be buried there after spending most of his life in South Korea.

Why was Ahn Hak-sop turned away from crossing into North Korea?

He was turned away by South Korean authorities, who cited a lack of time to make the necessary arrangements for his crossing.

What are Ahn's views on the US-South Korean relationship?

Ahn believes that the US presence in South Korea represents a form of colonialism that hinders genuine reunification with North Korea.

What was Ahn's experience as a prisoner of war?

He endured significant suffering during his time as a prisoner, facing torture and humiliation, as he resisted attempts to renounce his beliefs.

How has the situation changed in North Korea since Ahn left?

North Korea has undergone significant political and economic changes, remaining a reclusive dictatorship while facing ongoing economic challenges.

Ahn Hak-sop's journey raises profound questions about identity, belonging, and the legacy of conflict in the Korean Peninsula. As the situation evolves, the stories of individuals like Ahn remind us of the human cost of political ideologies and the enduring hope for peace and reunification. #Korea #AhnHakSop #Reunification