Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, confirmed on Wednesday the detention of South Korean citizen Baek Won-soon on espionage charges.
During a press briefing in Moscow, Zakharova revealed that Russia and Seoul are closely communicating regarding Baek’s situation, who was arrested in Vladivostok, in Russia’s Far East, at the beginning of the year.
Zakharova mentioned that the South Korean Embassy in Moscow has requested consular access to Baek, and efforts are being made to facilitate this.
She highlighted the classified nature of the investigation due to the espionage allegations against Baek.
Addressing the potential effects of this arrest on Russia-South Korea relations, Zakharova pointed out that Seoul has made several moves that negatively affect mutual interests and bilateral ties.
Zakharova emphasized the importance of countries engaging in respectful dialogue to overcome challenges, stating Russia’s commitment to such an approach.
Baek is currently held at Lefortovo Prison, with a recent court decision extending his detention until June 15, as reported by TASS.
The report by TASS noted that Baek is accused of transmitting state secrets to foreign intelligence, without providing additional details.
This incident is notable as the first arrest of a South Korean in Russia on espionage suspicions.–Web Desk