Two Cape Bretoners who spent more than 40 days in a South Korean jail may be back home soon.

Jason Beaton and Scott Thompson, from Port Hawkesbury, were arrested outside a bar March 11 after a fight with three local men.

The two English teachers pleaded guilty to charges similar to assault. Then last Friday they were released on bail while they waited to be sentenced.

When they returned to court on Thursday, the judge handed them a suspended sentence, according to Jason's father.

"The translator said 'you're suspended, your sentence is suspended you can go, goodbye.' That was just about it," said Marty Beaton.

He said his son is not being deported but has been asked to meet with immigration officials later in the week. Although Beaton could not confirm details about Thompson, he believes he too is free to come home.

Port Hawkesbury Mayor Billy Joe MacLean said the community has rallied behind the men and is ready to welcome them home.

"They're both strong, good boys so they'll put this behind them and get on with their lives," MacLean said.

Beaton said both men are expected back in Canada soon, but Jason has been offered another teaching contract.

"He loved teaching those kids and they liked him. He's seriously considering going back to teach there. But we'll have to talk about that later," Beaton said.