The IS confiscated a computer, notebook, data on his news coverage during his visit to the north and even a receipt between leaves of a notebook on the suspicion that he acted at the "Iljin Association" at the instructions of a Korean in Japan after being embraced by him.

Meanwhile, it is making an investigation into the managing editor of Minjok 21 by linking him with the so-called "case of the Iljin Association" for the mere reason that he conducted media activities in touch with Chongryon (the General Association of Korean Residents in Japan) during the preceding regime.

What is deplorable is the present reality of south Korea in which legitimate and open media activities are branded as "pro-communist acts of benefiting the enemy" and charges are being fabricated, the chief editor said, adding he would prove his innocence in the course of investigation.

The editorial board of Minjok 21 declared the recent action of the IS as little short of a premeditatedly and carefully worked out investigation as it was a grave provocation.