In July 2023, an American soldier named King fled to North Korea, marking the first instance of an American being detained there in nearly five years.

Instead of boarding his flight, King ran across the border into North Korea on July 18, shortly after being released from a South Korean detention facility.

Military officials reported that King crossed into North Korea without authorization, just a week after his release.

King's family has indicated that a series of emotional struggles may have influenced his decision to flee.

North Korean officials claimed that King expressed disillusionment with the U.S. Army and society, although these claims remain unverified.

The U.S. government has stated that it made no concessions in securing King's return from North Korea.

In September, North Korea notified the U.S. of its intention to return King, who was subsequently handed over to U.S. authorities by a Swedish convoy.

After his return, King underwent three weeks of debriefings and reintegration at Joint Base San Antonio.

Upon his return, the U.S. military charged King with multiple offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, including desertion and assault.

Desertion is a serious charge that could result in a prison sentence of up to three years.

King is scheduled to face a court martial hearing on September 20, 2024, at Fort Bliss, Texas, where he will discuss his actions and face sentencing.

King has expressed gratitude for the support from family and friends, emphasizing his desire to take responsibility for his actions.