Mystery of Alek Sigley’s detention in North Korea to linger as student vows silence

Minister says the 29-year-old should stay in Japan, go back to South Korea or Australia because his detention in North Korea could ‘have ended very differently’

It is still not clear why he was detained by the secretive North

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Australian student Alek Sigley, 29, who was detained in North Korea, arrives at Haneda International Airport in Tokyo. Photo: Reuters

Published: 9:05am, 5 Jul 2019Updated: 9:43pm, 5 Jul 2019

The mystery of Alek Sigley’s detention in North Korea may never be revealed after the Australian postgraduate student said he would not comment on the circumstances of his captivity in the isolated country.

Sigley said on Friday that he intended to “return to normal life” while thanking the Australian and Swedish governments for working to secure his release after more than a week in custody.

“I just want everyone to know that I am OK and to thank them for their concern for my wellbeing and their support for my family over the past week,” he said in a statement.

“My friends and family are always a source of love and support but have been even more so at this time. I also appreciate all the good wishes that myself, my family and my friends have received.”

Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaks in Parliament House in Canberra. Photo: EPA

The 29-year-old masters student said he would not be discussing his experience with the media at this time, or in the future.