'I am still processing it all': Hannah Kobayashi breaks silence after her disappearance

Hannah Kobayashi breaks silence after being 'found safe' more than a month after she went missing Credit: Sydni Kobayashi

Hannah Kobayashi, the 30-year-old woman from Hawaii who was the subject of an intense search, said she is only now learning about the widespread attention she received after her family reported her missing last month.

Speaking out for the first time since she went missing, Kobayashi said she is "deeply grateful" to her family and everyone who has shown her "kindness and compassion during this time”, according to a statement, distributed by Larie Pidgeon, her aunt.

She went on to ask the public to respect her family and herself as they “navigate through this challenging time.”

"I was unaware of everything that was happening in the media while I was away, and I am still processing it all," she added.

Ryan Kobayashi (centre) holds a picture of his missing daughter Hannah Kobayashi in Los Angeles. Credit: AP

On November 8, Kobayashi, of Maui, arrived at Los Angeles International Airport, but missed a connecting flight to New York City, family members said.

After spending four days in Los Angeles, she went radio silent. It was then later believed she crossed the border into Mexico.

At the time, police declared Kobayashia voluntary missing person, adding that she had sought to “step away from modern connectivity."Authorities made the announcement after reviewing security video from US Customs and Border Protection.

A flyer with information on Hannah Kobayashi. Credit: AP

Two weeks later, whilst she remained missing, Kobayashi father, Ryan, had travelled from Hawaii to Los Angeles to help look for his daughter.

On November 24, he was found dead near Los Angeles International Airport, which his family later said was suicide.

Kobayashi family confirmed she was "found safe" on December 11, more than four weeks after her disappearance and urgent appeals to the public.

In a statement posted to X at the time, her family said they were "incredibly relieved".

How to get help if you have been affected by the issues mentioned in this article:

  • CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) - Helpline: 0800 58 58 58

  • MIND provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. Information line: 0300 123 3393

  • Samaritans is an organisation offering confidential support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair. Phone 116 123 (a free 24 hour helpline).

  • Shout is a 24/7 text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone struggling to cope and in need of immediate help. Text SHOUT to 85258.

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know.