Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, issued the following statement following the State Department’s announcement that Ambassador Robert King will travel to North Korea to seek the release of Lynnwood man Kenneth Bae, who has been held in the country since November.

“I am encouraged by the State Department’s decision to send Ambassador King to North Korea and I thank the administration for its continued efforts to secure Kenneth’s release,” Larsen said. “Kenneth’s family has waited in anguish and uncertainty, but has never wavered in their tireless advocacy on his behalf. I commend the work of Ambassador King and all the State Department staff members who have worked to get to this point. I will continue working with the State Department and Kenneth’s family to ensure his safe return home.”

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