US soldier Travis King, who deserted to North Korea, will plead guilty to five of 14 offenses, including desertion and assault. He ran across the border from South Korea while on a sightseeing tour. King will explain his actions at a military court hearing on September 20. The crime of desertion carries a max five-year jail term. He previously served time in a South Korean jail and had been released on assault charges. The North Korean government initially claimed he defected due to mistreatment in the US Army but later expelled him for illegally entering. King’s lawyer stated he is grateful for the support and did not pre-judge him. Attempts were made to broker his return to the US involving Sweden and China as mediators. The US Army will withdraw and dismiss the remaining charges. Overall, King’s case demonstrates the complexities of military desertion and the challenges faced by soldiers serving abroad.
[ad_2]
Source link
US soldier to admit desertion to North Korea
