Photo Credit: Independent
Forget the Russian spies- a [South] Korean National Intelligence Service agent (read: spy) was recently deported from Libya on charges of illicit espionage, causing major issues between Libya and South Korea.
The agent was followed for months and was accused of gathering information on the activities of Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and his son.
A diplomatic source told the Dong-A Ilbo, “The Libyan government detained early last month a member of the National Intelligence Service stationed in Libya, who was gathering intelligence on North Korea and defense industry cooperation, under the pretext of harming Libya’s national security. Tripoli then designated him persona non grata June 15 and deported him three days later.”
South Korea has denied that the intelligence officer was gathering information on Gaddafi, who was reportedly furious when he heard the report.
“Tripoli apparently rejected Seoul’s explanation that the intelligence agent simply tried to gather data on construction, saying he was caught transferring money to a Libyan intelligence officer. It is a misunderstanding that the agent tried to gather classified intelligence beyond construction information.” –Dong-A Ilbo
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The Libyan authorities have unsurprisingly reacted strongly to the issue, closing its economic cooperation bureau in Seoul, which had served as an embassy, and arresting other South Korean residents, a missionary named Koo and a farmer named Jeon, on charges of breaking Muslim law.
Libya detainment camps are often used to hold African refugees who attempt to illegally immigrate to Europe; prisoners are denied a right to a fair public trial, which allows the government to hold prisoners indefinitely.
Libya and Korea’s previously strong economic relationship is now in danger, placing immense strain on the several multi-billion dollar construction projects currently in progress in Libya. According to the Korea Herald, there are a total of 29 Korean businesses operating in Libya right now, and several new businesses will need visas and equipment from the Libyan government, in order to begin work.
Libya, which has been in the international news frequently lately, also has strained relationships with the UK, and particularly Scotland, especially since the Lockerbie bombing.
Ironically, this year is the 30th anniversary of Libya and South Korea’s diplomatic relationship.
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