Defector Issues
Information related to North Korean defector issues
Ask a North Korean: What is it like to work on a construction site in the DPRK?
A former construction worker shares a day in the life, from long commutes and abusive bosses to workplace hazards
UN General Assembly adopts resolution slamming North Korean human rights abuses
US, South Korea among 61 nations to back measure criticizing DPRK’s use of resources on military rather than people
December 19, 2025
South Korea calls for dialogue to secure return of detainees held by North Korea
Seoul says suspension of inter-Korean talks remains an obstacle to freeing six ROK nationals held on espionage charges
December 4, 2025
North Korea in November 2025: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from November 1 to November 30, 2025
December 3, 2025
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
