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US Asks N. Korea to Release Three Americans

CBN

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The Obama administration says securing the release of three Americans being held in North Korea is a top priority.

State Department spokeswoman Jan Psaki said they're asking North Korea to release the men out of "humanitarian concern."

"We also request the DPRK pardon Kenneth Bae and grant him special amnesty and immediate release so he may reunite with his family and seek medical care," Psaki said.

On Monday, Jeffrey Fowle, Matthew Todd Miller, and Kenneth Bae were permitted to make statements to CNN. All three said they're being treated humanely, but pleaded for the U.S. government to get more involved in their release.

Bae, a tour guide and missionary, was arrested in November 2012 for allegedly trying to topple the North Korean government. He was convicted and sentenced to 15 years hard labor.

Bae said his health has deteriorated at the labor camp, where he works eight hours a day, six days a week. His sister said it's clear her 46-year-old brother is in a lot of pain.

Miller and Fowle were arrested earlier this year. North Korean officials said the two would stand trial for "perpetrating hostile acts."

Fowle's crime was reportedly leaving a Bible at a hotel.

Miller, 24, was arrested in April after he reportedly ripped up his visa at an immigration facility and demanded asylum.

Washington communicates with the detainees via the Swedish embassy in Pyongyang because the United States and North Korea have no diplomatic ties.

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