1. We have confirmed the death of Mr. Shim Sung-min on July 31, Tuesday, who is one of our people taken
hostage in Afghanistan. The ROK government expresses sincerest regret to the families of the deceased 
who had longed forthe abductee’s safe return.
 
2. While having consultations with the Afghan government, we are exerting our utmost efforts for the 
release of our people. The government of ROK cannot refrain from deep resentment regarding the 
kidnapping group’s merciless murder,and we strongly denounce such act.
 
3. The ROK government strongly urges the abductors to stop committing further actof brutality and to 
immediately free our people who are under detention. We will continue to make every effort for their safe 
return.   
 
 

                                                                  Spokesperson of MOFAT

 
* unofficial translation