Two South Korean journalists arrested for trespassing into North Korean ambassador's home in Singapore

(Outside the residence of the North Korean ambassador to Singapore at 60 Joo Chiat Lane on 8 June, 2018. PHOTO: Yahoo News Singapore)
(Outside the residence of the North Korean ambassador to Singapore at 60 Joo Chiat Lane on 8 June, 2018. PHOTO: Yahoo News Singapore)

Two South Korean journalists have been arrested for trespassing into the residence of the North Korean ambassador to Singapore at 60 Joo Chiat Lane, with another two men under investigation.

In a statement on Friday (8 June), the Singapore Police Force said that they received a report of a case of criminal trespass at about 3.50pm on Thursday.

The two men, aged 42 and 45, were representing Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) News.

A 31-year-old South Korean man, also from KBS News, and a 29-year-old South Korean man, who was the guide and interpreter for the group, are also under investigation.

Police said that the three men from KBS News are not accredited media personnel in Singapore.

Anyone convicted of criminal trespass under Section 447 of the Penal Code, may be punished with jail of up to three months and/or a fine of up to $1,500.

“The Police would like to remind all foreigners visiting Singapore to abide by our laws. Those who break the law will be dealt with firmly, and this may include termination of visas and repatriation,” said a police spokesman.

The arrests come amid a high level of security arrangements being carried out in and around the Donald Trump-Kim Jong Un summit venues. Sentosa and the Southern Islands, and Tanglin have been designated as special event areas, with the police empowered to carry out extensive searches within the zones of the areas.

The Capella in Sentosa will host the historic meeting between the US President and North Korean leader. According to media reports, Trump and Kim would be staying at the Shangri-La Hotel and The St. Regis, respectively – both hotels are located within the Tanglin area.

Yahoo News Singapore has reached out to the South Korean embassy and KBS News for comment.

Related stories:

Trump-Kim summit in Singapore draws mixed reactions from man on the street

Trump-Kim summit: South Koreans in Singapore excited and hopeful of positive outcome

Trump-Kim summit: Americans in Singapore sceptical on prospects for peace