South Korea Demands Answers from Israel Over Alleged Assault on Detained Activists

South Korea has formally expressed its strong concerns to Israel following credible reports from our citizens who were detained and allegedly assaulted by Israeli forces while participating in a humanitarian mission to Gaza.

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The government is gravely aware of the testimony from our citizens that they were assaulted by the Israeli military.

Activists Kim A-hyun (also known as Hae-cho) and Kim Dong-hyun returned to South Korea detailing their harrowing experience. Kim A-hyun stated she was repeatedly hit in the face, resulting in partial hearing loss in her left ear. Their detention occurred when their vessel, attempting to deliver aid to Gaza amidst the blockade, was intercepted by the Israeli military. This incident has prompted a firm response from our Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has conveyed our 'grave concern' to the Israeli side and vowed to take appropriate measures upon confirming the facts.

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We have conveyed our grave concerns to the Israeli side and will take measures commensurate with the seriousness of the situation based on the results of the fact-finding investigation.

This situation resonates deeply within South Korea, particularly in light of President Lee Jae-myung's strong condemnation of the detention. President Lee characterized the apprehension of our citizens under questionable legal grounds as 'extremely excessive and inhumane.' His directive to explore the possibility of investigating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whom he referred to as a 'war criminal,' for potential arrest underscores the seriousness with which our government views this matter. The activists were subsequently deported rather than held in prolonged detention.

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I was hit in the face multiple times (by the Israeli military), and as a result, my left ear is not hearing well.

The international outcry, partly fueled by the release of videos showing alleged abuse of detainees by far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, is seen as a factor that may have influenced the activists' release. For South Korea, this incident is not just about the physical safety of our citizens but also about upholding international humanitarian principles and demanding accountability. It highlights the challenges faced by those attempting to deliver aid in conflict zones and reinforces our commitment to advocating for justice and humane treatment on the international stage. The differing perspectives on this event, particularly from Israel's far-right elements, underscore the complex geopolitical landscape and the importance of international scrutiny.

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Apprehending our citizens for reasons not justifiable under international law is too excessive and inhumane.