A South Korean man who was held captive by militants in Libya... returned to his homeland earlier this afternoon,... 315 days since he was first kidnapped.
Speaking to reporters upon his arrival, Joo thanked the government for its rescue efforts,... and extended his gratitude to the United Arab Emirates as well,... which played a crucial role in the process at the request of the Blue House.
Though his initial physical check-ups showed he was in good health,... Joo said that he had lost around 10 kilograms in body weight.
He also left a message to four South Korean residents who refused to leave Libya,... expressing concerns for their well being... and encouraging them to leave the country.
Joo, who was an employee of a waterway management company,... was kidnapped by a group of armed militants in Libya last July.