The sister of U.S. citizen and missionary Kenneth Bae, has issued an apology to North Korea after her brother’s news conference on Monday.
According to CNN, Terri Chung issued a statement and addressed North Korean leaders.
"We understand that Kenneth has been convicted of crimes under (North Korean) laws. Our family sincerely apologizes on Kenneth's behalf. Kenneth has also acknowledged his crimes and has apologized. He has now served 15 months of his sentence, but faces chronic health problems. We humbly ask for your mercy to release my brother."
Bae’s family became particularly worried about his health after he sent them letters noting several medical issues he was having.
The Associated Press notes that Chung also called for action from American leaders to secure her brother’s release.
"We implore Secretary Kerry and President Obama to take immediate action to bring Kenneth home," she said.
The 44-year-old was arrested in November 2012 while guiding a tour along North Korea’s coast. He was convicted of “hostile acts” against the state and sentenced to 15 years hard labor.
