April 29, 2024

About the author

Joshua Kim

Joshua is a pseudonym for a North Korean defector writer. He was born and raised in North Korea and lived there until he defected in 2019. He now resides in South Korea.

More articles by 'Joshua Kim'

Ask a North Korean: What superstitions and urban myths exist in North Korea?

Ask a North Korean: What superstitions and urban myths exist in North Korea?

The state has failed to fully root out folk beliefs, which range from wedding rituals to tall tales about Kim Il Sung

Ask a North Korean: What superstitions and urban myths exist in North Korea?
Joshua Kim July 4, 2022
Settling in Seoul: The best and worst aspects of life as a North Korean defector

Settling in Seoul: The best and worst aspects of life as a North Korean defector

Separation from family and fast pace of life in South are challenging, but freedom from want and fear are irreplaceable

Settling in Seoul: The best and worst aspects of life as a North Korean defector
Joshua Kim May 5, 2022
Ask a North Korean: What is the process for getting a loan in North Korea?

Ask a North Korean: What is the process for getting a loan in North Korea?

While the national bank does not provide loans, there are other ways to borrow money for business endeavors

Ask a North Korean: What is the process for getting a loan in North Korea?
Joshua Kim April 8, 2022
Ask a North Korean: Is it possible to get plastic surgery in North Korea?

Ask a North Korean: Is it possible to get plastic surgery in North Korea?

Double eyelid surgery and cosmetic tattoos are popular, but such illegal medical procedures carry serious risks

Ask a North Korean: Is it possible to get plastic surgery in North Korea?
Joshua Kim March 23, 2022
Ask a North Korean: What was it like to vote for the first time in South Korea?

Ask a North Korean: What was it like to vote for the first time in South Korea?

Joshua Kim explains the DPRK’s electoral process and why voters there don’t really have a choice

Ask a North Korean: What was it like to vote for the first time in South Korea?
Joshua Kim March 15, 2022
Ask a North Korean: What North Korean brands do you miss the most?

Ask a North Korean: What North Korean brands do you miss the most?

The DPRK’s socialist system results in little brand awareness, but certain companies and products still stand out

Ask a North Korean: What North Korean brands do you miss the most?
Joshua Kim February 11, 2022