This piece provides an intimate look into the ongoing plight of a Japanese family, revolving around the unsolved abduction case of Megumi Yokota. Taken by North Korean agents 48 years ago, her case is still passionately pursued by her family and the Japanese government. This time, Megumi's brother emotionally speaks out about his sister and the event that dramatically shaped their family's life.

In Japan, the issue of citizens abducted by North Koreans during the Cold War has been a major sticking point in diplomatic relations with North Korea. People deeply sympathize with the victims' families who have been relentlessly seeking their loved ones' return. Megumi Yokota's case, in particular, has become symbolic of these abductions due to the young age at which she was abducted.

Unlike Japan, the US and EU have less direct experience with abduction issues related to North Korea. However, cases of citizens detained abroad - such as journalist Austin Tice in Syria or the hostages taken during the Iran hostage crisis - can provide similar context. The struggle of the victims' families and their governments' diplomatic efforts to bring them back are universally resonant themes.