Defector Issues
Information related to North Korean defector issues
Ask a North Korean: How does North Korea fight forest fires?
A defector writes about being mobilized to create firebreaks and how a lack of resources stifles fire response
UN committee adopts resolution on North Korean human rights with US support
61 nations, including US and ROK, co-sponsor measure condemning DPRK’s ‘grave’ abuses, which now goes to General Assemby
November 20, 2025
North Korea created new spy group to monitor ‘anti-socialist’ acts: Researcher
Defectors reportedly say the previously unknown 84 Gruppa targets military-linked firms dealing in foreign currency
November 19, 2025
Ask a North Korean: How did you celebrate Mother’s Day?
The relatively new holiday is now a popular occasion to give gifts, while promoting the regime’s ideal of family life
China’s collection of biometric data on North Korean defectors raises alarm
Human rights report finds that Beijing’s targeting of escapees jeopardizes their precarious living situation
November 14, 2025
North Korean defector turned away from ROK’s Blue House alleges discrimination
Controversy erupts after security refused to allow DPRK-born workers to deliver materials to presidential office
November 13, 2025
Book review: An ex-North Korean diplomat pulls back the curtain on the regime
Ri Il Gyu’s memoir recounts DPRK’s goals in Latin America and raises alarm about Pyongyang’s strategy toward Japan
November 13, 2025
New broadcasting service launches to spread outside info to North Koreans
Led by a defector, Korea Internet Studio aims to fill gap left by closure of radio programs transmitting into DPRK
November 11, 2025
North Korean cyber campaign fueled by new malware strain that wipes phones
Researchers find cyberattacks exploited ‘social trust’ between victims, but disagree on threat group attribution
November 10, 2025
Activists launch panel to repatriate North Korean POWs held in Ukraine
Organizers say they will lean on local networks and governments to help DPRK soldiers captured fighting for Russia
November 7, 2025
