Republic of Korea (South Korea): 290 National Security Law arrests in first six months of 1997

Republic of Korea (South Korea): 290 National Security Law arrests in first six months of 1997

Amnesty International is concerned at the increased number of political arrests. Between January and early July 1997 at least 290 people were arrested under South Korea's National Security Law which prohibits activities judged to be pro-North Korean. AI is calling for the release of those held for non-violent activities. It also appeals to the authorities not to misuse the National Security Law in connection with South Korea's Presidential election in December.