Australian missionary John Short detained in North Korea

[alp227]

Source: ABC News Australia

An Australian missionary has been detained by authorities in North Korea for allegedly possessing religious material.

The ABC understands John Short, 75, was arrested at his Pyongyang hotel on Sunday after distributing Christian pamphlets.

His family says he could face up to 15 years' jail.

Mr Short's wife Karen says it was her husband's second trip to the secretive country and he was aware of the risks.

Read more: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-02-19/australian-missionary-detained-in-north-korea/5270374

[rbixby]

1. Given how obviously illegal it is to do this kind of thing there

You'd think missionaries would just give it up.

[LuckyLib]

2. Don't be surprised if you are arrested in North Korea for acting like you have individual freedom.

I get fatigued by these do-gooders who find themselves imprisoned in countries such as NK, and then expect the US government to get them out.

[penultimate]

3. He'll probably be looking for the Australian government to get him out...

[davidpdx]

4. I agree

While I hate the North Korean Government, but doing things that puts yourself in direct harm doesn't make much sense. This guy is Australian not American. It also creates a huge headache for our country (and Australia) diplomatically when we are trying to find a way to stop their nuclear program.