The Secretary-General is very concerned about the recent trend of hostage-taking in Iraq. In the latest incident, Mr. Kim Sun-Il, interpreter from the Republic of Korea for a trade company, was taken hostage on 17 June 2004.

The Secretary-General condemns all such acts of hostage-taking, which can have no justification and are aimed at undermining international efforts to help restore peace and security in Iraq. The Secretary-General strongly appeals for the immediate and safe release of Mr. Kim Sun-Il, as well as all other hostages being held.