Defector Issues
Information related to North Korean defector issues
Year-end special: A look back at the most compelling North Korea stories of 2025
NK News journalists share the stories that meant the most to them and offer insights into how they reported on the DPRK
High-level North Korean defector reports top official was executed by burning
New memoir by ex-diplomat Ryu Hyun-woo also reveals existence of secret organization managing Kim Jong Un’s slush fund
North Korean defectors report record-high life satisfaction, but concerns linger
Data also showing improved employment rate comes after ROK official warned escapee suicides have reached serious level
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
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
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
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
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
