North Korea Nuclear Row May 'Close Door' on Abduction Issue

International pressure and sanctions following North Korea's nuclear test have raised fears that such moves will hinder efforts against alleged abductions committed by the Kim Jong Il regime.

Human rights groups and family members of abductees have highlighted North Korea's "crimes against humanity" as the communist state confirmed its agreement to join six-party talks earlier this week. North Korea had recently sparked worldwide outrage when it announced a successful underground nuclear test which resulted in international sanctions.

"The sanctions may anger North Korea, and that will mean the country closes the door on the abduction issue," said Shigeru Yokota, 73, according to Bloomberg news on Thursday. "But if the international community succeeds in putting enough pressure on North Korea, we hope it will help our cause in the longer term," Yokota added.