5 Abducted by N. Korea Say They Want to Stay in Japan
NIIGATA, Japan — Five Japanese kidnapped by North Korea in the late 1970s broke their silence today, saying they want to stay in their homeland permanently. They asked Tokyo to continue talks with the communist regime to bring their families to Japan.
The abductees’ announcement marked the first time they have expressed a desire to resettle in Japan since returning in October for what was supposed to be a two-week visit.
North Korea says that the five are being kept in Japan against their will and has refused Tokyo’s request to send over their seven children.
Abductee Yasushi Chimura said the five made their decision after private talks Wednesday.
“We have confirmed with each other that we want to remain in Japan,” he said.
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