July 3 rd saw another successful defection attempt between the North Korean mainland and

one of the South Korean islands in the

West Sea.

An official with the

South Korean military explained the background to the crossing earlier today.

“An individual, who is presumed to be a North Korean civilian, expressed

his intent to defect on Baekryeong Island last night,” he said, adding, “The defector said that he had

come to Baekryeong Island on a wooden vessel.”

According to the

military, the individual requested protection upon arrival. The relevant

authorities are now conducting an investigation into what motivated his successful

defection attempt and the precise route by which it was undertaken.

The North Korean citizen

apparently conveyed his intent to remain in the South to the ROK Navy sentry who discovered him.