Defector Issues
Information related to North Korean defector issues
A voice from beyond: How radio inspired a North Korean soldier to escape
Kang Min-kook says ROK broadcasts opened his eyes to life in the DPRK. Now he worries what happens when they stop.
February 24, 2026
Ukraine has legal obligation not to repatriate North Korean POWs: UN envoy
Elizabeth Salmón also says human rights should at the center of negotiations with Pyongyang, visiting Seoul for talks
February 6, 2026
Poor North Koreans face harsher penalties for watching K-dramas: Report
Amnesty International highlights how culture of bribery shapes legal enforcement, citing new defector testimony
February 5, 2026
Ask a North Korean: How did you learn about major events like Party Congresses?
While a lucky few get the honor of attending, everyone else faces the unenviable task of memorizing new policies
Kids of North Korean origin drop out of high school at double ROK average
Government data highlights challenges students born in third countries face due to language and cultural barriers
February 2, 2026
Ruling party launches new committee to support North Korean defectors
The Special Committee on North Korean Defectors held its first meeting to produce legislation for escapees in ROK
January 28, 2026
Japanese court orders North Korea to pay damages for deceiving migrants
Ruling finds DPRK liable for $570K for luring people from Japan on false promises under ‘Paradise on Earth’ scheme
January 27, 2026
Only 223 North Korean defectors arrived in the South last year, down from 2024
Seoul says most new arrivals lived overseas before resettling in ROK, as tight border controls limit escapes
January 23, 2026
RFA to resume operations in South Korea, paving way for broadcasts to North
Broadcaster’s planned return comes amid expectations for new US funding, after Trump cuts forced half-year suspension
January 19, 2026
What a hit ROK film gets right — and wrong — about Christianity in North Korea
Defectors say ‘Choir of God’ misrepresents life in the DPRK but draws attention to the reality of religious persecution
January 15, 2026
