US Passports still banned for travel to North Korea, says State Department.
Biden Administration Extends Ban on U.S. Passports for Travel to North Korea
WASHINGTON—In a move to address rising tensions with North Korea, the Biden administration has announced the extension of a ban on the use of U.S. passports for travel to the country. This ban, which was initially imposed in 2017, has been renewed every year since.
The decision comes amidst concerns over North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, as well as the uncertain status of Travis King, a U.S. service member who recently entered the country through its heavily armed border.
“The Department of State has determined there continues to be serious risk to U.S. citizens and nationals of arrest and long-term detention constituting imminent danger to their physical safety,”
The ban, which makes it illegal to use a U.S. passport for travel to, from, or through North Korea, will remain in place until Aug. 31, 2024, unless it is extended or rescinded. However, exceptions can be made in cases of compelling national interest.
Background and Rationale
The ban was initially implemented by former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson in 2017 following the tragic death of American student Otto Warmbier. Warmbier suffered severe injuries while in North Korean custody after being arrested for allegedly stealing a propaganda poster. He later died in a Cincinnati hospital.
Despite the ban, there are concerns regarding the case of Travis King, who entered North Korea in July. While it is unclear whether he used a U.S. passport for his entry, the United States is actively seeking his return and has faced challenges in obtaining information from North Korean officials.
Last week, North Korea officially confirmed King’s presence in the country, releasing a statement through its state media that attributed critical remarks about the United States to the Army private. However, the authenticity of these statements has yet to be verified.
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