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SEOUL : Two South Korean women who were released by the Taliban earlier this week have finally returned to Seoul.
They were among 23 South Koreans abducted in Afghanistan by militants just over three weeks ago.
19 others in the group are still in captivity; two of the men have been killed.
South Koreans Kim Ji Na and Kim Kyung Ja were part of a 23-member church volunteers who went to Afghanistan to provide free medical care for the poor.
Speaking to the media at Seoul's international airport, they expressed concern over the fate of the other South Koreans still being held by the Taliban.
"I want to thank the Korean government and the people for their concern. I'm sorry for causing so much worry and I hope the rest of our team members will be freed," said Kim Kyung-ja.
"I'm very sorry that so many people had to try so hard to release us. Our only wish is for the rest of the team members to be freed," said Kim Ji-na.
The militants are demanding the release of Taliban prisoners in exchange for freeing the Koreans.
They've described the release of the two women as a goodwill gesture.
They are expected to remain in government custody, amid worries that what they say or do may hamper efforts to secure the release of the remaining hostages.
Families of the South Koreans still in captivity monitored the women's homecoming at their home church in Bundang on the outskirts of Seoul.
The Afghan government has rejected the Taliban's demand to free prisoners, and the South Korean authorities are now in direct talks with the militants.
Seoul however has made it clear that its hands are tied regarding meeting the Taliban's demands.
Across South Korea, cheers at the safe return of the two women are combined with prayers that all 19 remaining hostages will also return home soon. - CNA /ls
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