Australians, who venture into harm’s way overseas may cause our government considerable cost and “diplomatic capital” in getting them repatriated. However, Alek Sigley is not your average adventurer (Missing Aussie student freed from North Korean detention, 5/7). Having studied North Korean culture and operated a tourism business for some time, he may well be a great advocate for the state when hostile walls are torn down with Donald Trump’s peace initiatives. I share Aussie annoyance when reckless adventurers rely on taxpayers subsidising their failed exploits. Expensive unplanned hospitalisations and repatriations are becoming too commonplace. However, future trade delegations to North Korea may well be led by people who share Alek’s values and interests. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 6July2019.