According to Lee Seong Gu of the Global Love Rice Sharing Foundation, Baek was engaged in missionary work, providing aid and spreading the Gospel to Russian, Thai, and North Korean laborers in need. Russian authorities arrested Baek earlier this year, as reported by the state news agency Tass on March 11.

Currently, Baek, a Korean citizen, awaits trial in Moscow’s Lefortovo pre-trial detention center. Following his initial hearing, the Lefortovo District Court extended his detention until June 15. If convicted under Article 276 of the Russian Criminal Code, Baek could face up to 20 years in prison.

Pastor Baek’s arrest signals the start of a broader crackdown by the Russian government on all missionary activities aiding North Koreans in Russia. This encompasses not only South Korean missionaries but also any assistance provided by Russian church members to North Korean individuals.

Source: apnews.com