Reports from the North Korean state media indicated Saturday that a United States citizen on a trip to Pyongyang has apologized for committing crimes while serving in the Korean War, and for "hostile acts" he reportedly performed against the DPRK.
North Korean authorities videotaped 85-year-old Merrill Newman's apology, which was dated Nov. 9, according to the Associated Press. The American citizen appeared on camera wearing a blue button down shirt, glasses and khakis.
"I have been guilty of a long list of indelible crimes against DPRK government and Korean people," Newman reportedly wrote in his four-page confession. "Please forgive me."
But the confession hasn't been officially confirmed as his by any sources outside of the North Korean media. Additionally, the statement allegedly written by Newman was full of incorrect grammar and labored English.
"I want not punish me," the statement read at one point.
The man who once served in the Korean War and recently traveled to the North to make another visit allegedly tried to meet with fellow soldiers with whom he'd trained to fight North Korea. He reportedly admitted that he killed North Korea citizens, and an e-book he brought on his trip was skeptical on North Korea's government and practices.
Officials in Pyongyang haven't yet said whether they'll release Newman, or keep him longer still. But the statement purportedly said that if Newman returns to the United States, he can tell "the truth about the country," according to AP.
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