South Korea: “Unconverted” political prisoners

AI is concerned about a number of prisoners convicted under national security legislation in Korea, who appear to remain in detention because of their refusal to renounce their real or alleged communist beliefs. Known as “unconverted” political prisoners, they have been held for some years in Taejon Prison, although reports suggest that some may have been transferred to other prisons. They are serving long sentences for alleged espionage on behalf of North Korea; most were convicted under previous governments. They appear to be excluded from consideration for early release by the Parole Examination Board. Three prisoners, Kim Song-man, Yu Won-ho and Chang Ui- gyun, have been adopted by AI. AI is concerned that some prisoners may have been convicted after unfair trials.

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