EVERETT—Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, issued the following statement following the State Department’s announcement that North Korea has retracted its invitation for a U.S. official to visit North Korea. U.S. Special Envoy for North Korean Human Rights Issues Ambassador Robert King had been scheduled to travel to North Korea today to attempt to secure the release of Lynnwood-man Kenneth Bae, who has been held in the country since November.

“I am disappointed by North Korea’s decision to reverse course and not allow Ambassador King to enter the country,” Larsen said. “I know this setback will be difficult for the Bae family who had hoped for good news today. I commend the State Department for their efforts and know that Ambassador King and his staff will persist in their efforts to secure Kenneth’s release.

“The North Koreans gain nothing from this course reversal. It is time to let Kenneth come home to his family and get the medical attention he needs.”

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