If you're a North Korean citizen trying to make an (underground) living in China, there's one event that will certainly bring you back home: election day in the DRPK, when many flood back into the country to have their votes counted whenever they are called.
Why? According to defector Mina Yoon, who left North Korea in 2011, elections function mainly as a means for the state to keep track of its population’s whereabouts and to keep track of defectors.
If you're a North Korean citizen trying to make an (underground) living in China, there's one event that will certainly bring you back home: election day in the DRPK, when many flood back into the country to have their votes counted whenever they are called.
Why? According to defector Mina Yoon, who left North Korea in 2011, elections function mainly as a means for the state to keep track of its population’s whereabouts and to keep track of defectors.
Become a member for less than $4 per week.
Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now
All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.