Defector Issues
Information related to North Korean defector issues
Just 105 North Korean escapees arrive in South in first half of 2024: Seoul
Figure is similar to last year and suggests heightened border controls continue to make it difficult to defect
July 24, 2024
BTS rocks, Kim sucks: How Seoul’s loudspeakers seek to sway North Korean minds
Border broadcasts feature news, weather, music and more, but sharp criticism of Kim Jong Un risks inciting DPRK response
July 24, 2024
ROK turns up loudspeakers, a North Korean diplomat’s testimony and defector art
NK News’ Joon Ha Park discusses what South Korea is broadcasting over the border in response to DPRK trash balloons
July 23, 2024
High-profile DPRK defector appointed secretary-general of unification council
Tae Yong-ho’s appointment marks first time North Korean defector has been offered senior government role
July 19, 2024
Between worlds: The young North Korean defectors exploring identity through art
Multimedia pieces from new generation of defector artists show their North Korean roots as well as their lives in South
July 19, 2024
North Korean diplomat in Cuba recently defected to South, Seoul confirms
In media interview, Ri Il Gyu says he grew disillusioned during COVID and that Kim Jong Un distrusted foreign ministry
July 16, 2024
Kim Yo Jong threatens new forms of retaliation if ROK leafleting continues
North Korean leader’s sister says South will pay ‘gruesome’ price following discovery of more ROK balloons near border
July 16, 2024
First hearing for US soldier who fled to North Korea postponed for plea talks
Travis King had been set to appear in military court on Tuesday on charges of desertion and soliciting child porn
July 16, 2024
‘I feel proud’: Seoul celebrates North Korean escapees with first Defectors’ Day
Escapees gather to sing, dance and showcase businesses at joyful event, as Yoon pledges support for defector community
July 15, 2024
Bricks in the wall: How North Korean textbooks indoctrinate support for regime
DPRK’s messages can shape defector resettlement in ROK, encouraging engagement but hampering understanding of democracy
July 15, 2024
