Kim Jong Il has issued a "special pardon" for American journalists Euna Lee and Laura Ling and ordered their release at forme U.S. President Bill Clinton's request: North Korea: 2 U.S. journalists pardoned.
According to the government's Korean Central News Agency, the move to free the reporters reflected North Korea's "humanitarian and peaceloving policy." That's extremely laughable, but never mind -- the important thing is that they're free. Here's the state from Euna and Laura's families:
The families of Laura Ling and Euna Lee are overjoyed by the news of their pardon. We are so grateful to our government: President Obama, Secretary Clinton and the U.S. State Department for their dedication to and hard work on behalf of American citizens.This news has pretty much made my day. It's not clear when they would leave the country. Immediately would be great. Let's hope Euna and Laura are on the plane back to the United States with Bill. More here: N. Korean leader reportedly pardons U.S. journalists.
We especially want to thank President Bill Clinton for taking on such an arduous mission and Vice President Al Gore for his tireless efforts to bring Laura and Euna home. We must also thank all the people who have supported our families through this ordeal, it has meant the world to us. We are counting the seconds to hold Laura and Euna in our arms.
UPDATE: A spokesperson for former President Bill Clinton has confirmed that he and Laura Ling and Euna Lee have left North Korea: Clinton leaves North Korea with pardoned journalists. According to the statement, "President Clinton has safely left North Korea with Laura Ling and Euna Lee. They are en route to Los Angeles where Laura and Euna will be reunited with their families." Laura and Euna are coming home.