March 28, 2024
Evergreen

Why so many North Koreans need to reach third countries to defect

South Korea must press China more to stop refoulement, experts say

A total of 31,093 North Korean defectors have made it to South Korea since 1998, and every year about a thousand more arrive. The majority travel an estimated 3000 miles across China to reach third countries such as Thailand, Laos, or Mongolia before flying to South Korea.

This route may seem strangely roundabout. After all, there is an ROK consulate in Shenyang, China, not far from the North Korean border, as well as an embassy in Beijing. What is to stop a North Korean from simply entering a South Korean embassy or consulate in China and claiming asylum?

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.