A Ugandan lesbian seeking refuge in South Korea may be deported after losing her case at a local appeals court on grounds that her fear of persecution against homosexuals in her homeland may be unfounded, news reports said Monday.

Earlier, a lower court granted her refugee status, accepting her claims that she would face punishment in her home country because she is a lesbian. In Uganda, same-sex relationships are deemed a crime punishable by incarceration in prison for up to 14 years.

But the higher court ruled in favor of the government’s immigration office, saying it is hard to accept her testimony that she is a lesbian. The immigration office insisted that she had tried to find a male marriage partner through an online dating agency and exchanged emails with several men.

The woman’s lawyer said he will consult with the client before deciding whether to file for an appeal.

By Yoon Ha-youn and news reports (yhayoun@heraldcorp.com)