The nation’s envoy for consular affairs, Moon Ha-young, says the principle of prohibiting the forced repatriation of North Korean escapees must be observed by all means.

Moon, who also serves as ambassador for global counterterrorism cooperation, made the statement during a general meeting of the International Organization for Migration at the U.N. Office in Geneva on Tuesday.

The ambassador said all countries connected to the issue of North Korean escapees must abide by international laws regarding refugee status.

Moon said North Korean escapees face serious risks to their lives when they are sent back home, and he stressed this cannot continue to happen.