Taliban YouTube Videos Support Kidnapped Koreans
By Cho Jin-seo
Staff Reporter
Internet users are spreading video files on YouTube calling for the release of kidnapped South Koreans in Afghanistan.
Thousands have watched the video files containing photos of the 23 hostages on volunteering activities in Afghanistan as well as direct messages to the Taliban, expecting that the militants or their accomplices may access the world's most popular video sharing site.
Users stressed that the abducted groups were on medical and educational missions with no missionary intentions. They also said that the people of Korea should not upbraid the victims for their precarious journey as long as they are still under death threats and need support from compatriots.
``I made this video because I was so shocked after reading some people's responses on the Internet regarding the news. There were criticisms and even insults (to the hostages),'' said a YouTube user who posted the videos. ``What is important now is to save their lives. To say whether they were right or wrong is the next question.''
The man, who said he is a Korean living in New York, said that he composed the three-minute film with pictures taken from the hostages' personal homepages. The pictures showed one of the 23 hostages working in schools and hospitals in Afghanistan on her previous trip in 2005.
``It seems that many Internet users are trapped in the `blaming-the-victim' syndrome. I wonder how many of them have an experience of loving and helping underprivileged people,'' he said.
Gina Pendley, who said that she is a psychology professor in the United States, said she felt great sorrow and sympathy for the parents of the hostages as herself being a parent.
``My concerns became even greater over the weekend because very little was being covered about it in the papers in the States,'' she said. ``I knew time was critical because of the deadline set by the Taliban. I decided to make a video so that this story could be instantly shared with others worldwide on the Internet.''
Many have agreed to the view.
``(I) wish the Koreans could come back home safely. They might not have been wise enough to avoid that risk but they do not deserve to die,'' a user commented.
``I loved the video. Surely the Taliban realize that they are holding peaceful non-militants,'' another said. ``We can't sit by and let these innocent people be killed just for trying to help. I'll pass this video on and spread the word about this injustice.''
Some of the videos are being shared on Korean sites such as Daum. Many are raising voices in cyber communities about how the government should react to the kidnappers. Some argue that the Afghan government should free the Taliban prisoners in exchange for the Koreans, as requested. Others are suggesting use of military force.
Pendley said that the conflict should be solved in a nonviolent manner.
"When the Taliban abducted and threatened the lives of the hostages, a great wrong was done to innocent civilians. All life is precious, despite our differences in religion or culture. I hope that this sentiment is felt by all who see my video. I will continue to pray for all involved."