Myanmar Soccer Player Files For Asylum In Japan
A member of Myanmar's national soccer team has applied for refugee status in Japan after refusing to return home following a World Cup qualifier match.
Pyae Lyan Aung made a gesture of protest against the Myanmar military's suppression of citizens before the match on May 28.
He did not join his team in leaving Japan's Kansai International Airport last Wednesday, saying he feared punishment in Myanmar.
He filed for refugee status at the Osaka Regional Immigration Services Bureau in western Japan on Tuesday.
He also applied for a work permit under emergency measures set up by Japan's Immigration Services Agency in May for Myanmar people wishing to extend their stays after their visas expire.
A lawyer for Pyae Lyan Aung said immigration officials plan to interview him as soon as possible.
Pyae Lyan Aung said he feels at ease now that he's filed for refugee status. He also said he hopes to go back to Myanmar when peace returns, but wants to stay in Japan for a while. He added that he hopes asylum will be granted.
Pyae Lyan Aung raised three fingers of his right hand while Myanmar's national anthem was played before the match on May 28.
The show of protest drew wide media coverage. Based on the circumstances, the Immigration Services Agency plans to take procedures to grant him refugee status.