US Spy Chief Describes Weird North Korea Visit

The North Koreans are generous but perplexing hosts, according to National Intelligence Director James Clapper. According to Reuters, the spy chief says that during his secret mission to Pyongyang last November to bring two Americans home, a general treated him to a "marvelous" 12-course banquet at a restaurant that sat over a bowling alley—but the next day, officials told him that he was no longer considered a presidential envoy and his group's safety could no longer be guaranteed.

Clapper says he was then taken to a hotel where Kenneth Bae and Matthew Miller were handed over before the group headed to the airport. For those wishing to sample North Korean hospitality, Pyongyang says it has now lifted tough travel restrictions brought in over fears of Ebola, the AP reports. (More North Korea stories.)