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by beetree on 17 March 2016 - 14:03
15 years sentencing in a North Korean hard labor camp for stealing a propaganda poster. College prank, a dare, or easy money?
How much does it matter, except to wonder what was he thinking? Why would an intelligent young man not understand one could not get further from American thinking and youth coddling as the political climate in the country of North Korea? Watching what we all know is a coerced confession, with the blubbering young man gripped by the arms by his unsmiling guards, still, is about as uncomfortable a moment to watch, as any. I am filled with compassion and devastated for his family. At the same time, I am appalled at his stupidity, seeing that the set price to be paid is beyond reasonable.
As our kids reach adulthood, and as I have reminded my own, their actions have consequences sometimes— that are beyond the ability of what mom and dad, can fix. Be wise, kids especially when traveling beyond our USA shores.
by joanro on 17 March 2016 - 14:03
The kid is weak minded and weak nerved. Why are Americans allowed to go to nk...the only thing nk wants from them is political fodder, like this kid will be.
Us schools evidently don't teach the horrors of dictatorial countries...the kid will end up in the gulag after a One hour trial.
by beetree on 17 March 2016 - 15:03
Wow, here is an eye opener. Apparently he went there with Young Pioneer Tours, based in China. Check this out on their North Korean FAQ page:
North Korea FAQ
How safe is it?
Extremely safe! Despite what you may hear, North Korea is probably one of the safest places on Earth to visit. Tourism is very welcomed in North Korea, thus tourists are cherished and well taken care of. We have never felt suspicious or threatened at any time. In fact, North Korean’s are super friendly and accommodating, if you let them into your world. Even during tense political moments tourism to the DPRK is never affected.
Joan, I don't think anyone is going to have to worry about his weak nerves/mind being passed on in any sort of DNA exchange for the time being. Don't you have any compassion and thoughts about what his treatment has been, that would make many a US citizen react in the same tortured and mentally beaten down way?
by joanro on 17 March 2016 - 15:03
by joanro on 17 March 2016 - 15:03
by beetree on 17 March 2016 - 15:03
I would say you should be making a distinction between marketing and propaganda. And maybe realize this thread has nothing to do with Trump or any politicians running for the USA presidency. Your last statement doesn't deserve a serious response, there is just so much wrong with it.
The Chinese company promoting these tours admits openly on its frontage:
Young Pioneer Tours is an adventure travel company formed in 2008 and based in mainland China. Specialising in travel to North Korea, we are an adventure tour operator that provides “budget tours to destinations your mother would rather you stayed away from”. We are renowned and rated as one of the best tour operators to the DPRK (North Korea) with our unparalleled experience, fun way of doing things, and most importantly, excellent relations in country; this makes us the best choice for your Korea tour. As well as seeing the must see sights in Pyongyang and visiting the DMZ, we provide tours to various locations within North Korea. So whether you’re looking to compete in the Pyongyang Marathon, experience the spectacular sights of Mt Paektu, ski at the world class Masikryong Ski resort, explore the extreme North East of the country, or visit Rason city – North Korea’s Special Economic Zone, we have itineraries to suit all travellers. Aside from the DPRK, we travel to a number of other destinations such as Iran, Cuba, China, Antarctica, Turkmenistan, Iraq, South East Asia and other former Soviet countries. All our tours are founded on the YPT ethos of fun, thrill seeking and adventure at a great price. All ages welcomed! Book your next adventure with us today!
If one is embarking on a travel journey, with tourist status, it would not be unreasonable to assume a traveler will not be breaking any laws. If Warmbier hadn't broken a law, one might think that the above paragraphs were in fact reliable. The real issue for us, is if the punishment is fitting the crime. Clearly, the differences in how punishment is meted and the seriousness of the crime is determined is where the judgment of Warmbier in his youth, fell far short.
Any loving parent would feel heart pangs at this situation, I am sure. Whether or not their offspring was judged with any intrinsic human value or not, when seen as weak nerved by internet strangers is just another painful reality for them.
by joanro on 17 March 2016 - 16:03
That story has everything to do with current politics and propaganda being so readily consumed by Americans. His parents should have been smarter than to think nk is a fine place to see their kid 'tour'.
Take long hard look at what nkorea is, because that's what trump canturn this country into...its all about POWER.
by beetree on 17 March 2016 - 17:03
... Not going to bother.
I am however, convinced it is a tragedy for the young man's future and has nothing to do with D. Trump's run for president. Otto's mistep made him North Korea's pawn because he was stupid. I don't see how blaming his parents is meaningful when we haven't a clue about them, or their child's maturity and level of worldly savvy before the incident.
by GSD Admin on 17 March 2016 - 18:03
by joanro on 17 March 2016 - 18:03
He 'talks with himself because he has a good brain and a good instinct for running country' ( read. Into the ground) ...
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