Why Would Someone Defect To North Korea: Every year, dozens of defectors from North Korea cross treacherous borders and attempt the journey to asylum in South Korea or other countries. But why do these individuals risk their lives to escape North Korea? This article examines the various drivers behind this phenomenon, ranging from economic, political and social factors, to the more extreme cases of religious persecution or even kidnapping.
For many North Koreans, defecting is the only possibility available to them. Echoing this sentiment, a spokesman for South Korea’s ministry of unification has noted that “There is no end to the suffering in North Korea, and so people defect despite the risk.” Indeed, the economic reality in North Korea is so dire that without escaping the country, many would face extreme poverty and malnutrition, unable to access basic necessities like food, shelter and even adequate healthcare.
The oppressive state also impinges on individual freedoms, repressing expression, freedom of speech and basic rights. North Koreans are fearful of speaking out, and for dissenting voices, the consequence can often be gulags, extrajudicial punishments or even death. The lack of civil liberties is why many defectors try to flee.
Political and religious dissidents are particularly vulnerable. Faith-based subcultures are particularly targeted, while fleeing religious persecution is also a strong trigger for defections. As noted by the director of the European Alliance for Human Rights in North Korea, “For the government of North Korea to detect that people have a religious belief is seen as a direct challenge and will bring about consequences. North Koreans know that if they are found out, their lives could be at risk or their family members might suffer repercussions.”
More extreme cases include individuals who have been abducted and forcibly taken to North Korea. In recent years, Japan has noted a rise in the number of kidnapping cases, with four individuals in particular being repatriated from North Korea in 2017.
Financial Restraints of Defectors
For those who successfully manage the arduous journey to freedom, life-long financial restraints and complications await. A significant amount of their savings are taken away on arrival in South Korea, with the attitude of the state shifting from welcoming to apprehension when faced with the costs associated with the success of these individuals.
Defectors must pay a sum of 1-2 million South Korean won, an amount equivalent to around $870 – $1,740 USD, which is deducted from their bank accounts. With living expenses in South Korea also high, this sum is a complete and irreversible loss for many, severely limiting the amount of funds available for those who have risked their lives for a better life.
Moreover, defectors must also sometimes face discrimination in South Korea, as many South Koreans have a negative and suspicious attitude towards the newcomers. This could include denials in social services such as benefits, housing and education opportunities. Additionally, speeches from relative high-ranking North Korean leaders urging North Koreans not to defect often contribute to this attitude in South Korea, instilling a feeling of suspicion when a defector is successful.
Safe Passage for Those Seeking to Flee
Yet, despite all these economic and political troubles, a successful escape to freedom is still possible, particularly with the help of UN agencies and other organizations active in the area. Often, the UN resettlement agencies provide much-needed assistance, such as allowing safe passage, legal paperwork, permits and visas, while other organizations work to provide psychological and even medical care to those fleeing.
The story of a North Korean defector named Choe was emblematic of this. Choe successfully crossed the border of North Korea and headed to China, where he eventually received help from an organization that facilitated his safe journey to safety in South Korea. Apart from this, the organization provided legal aid and psychological counselling for Choe, which enabled him to adjust to his new environment.
The problem of North Korean defectors is a long-standing issue that shows no signs of abating. Despite the government’s attempts to prevent further defections, it is clear that a large number of North Koreans are continuously attempting to flee the country, often risking their lives in the process.
The Humanitarian Cost of Death for Defectors
Unfortunately for many, however, the cost of this journey can be tragic. During the escape, defectors are often unable to access food, shelter and medical care, falling victim to neglect, accidents, human trafficking and even death. According to a report issued by Freedom House in 2018, an estimated 3,000 North Koreans have perished since 1998.
Furthermore, the harsh punishment that awaits those who are captured on their journey often serves as a deterrent for others. As seen in 2017, two families – comprising of 18 total individuals – were captured while fleeing to South Korea. The families were then repatriated, with some being arrested and others forcibly sent to the coal mines in kwasongee.
These instances are just a few examples that demonstrate the dangers inherent in the process of escaping North Korea. Defectors are constantly exposed to the risk of physical danger, and at times their journey can result in the tragic cost of life.
International Outlook of Defectors
Despite the dangers and obstacles faced by North Korean defectors, the issue remains squarely in the global spotlight. In particular, China – the closest foreign state to North Korea – is increasingly criticized for its part in the complex process.
As noted by Amnesty International, “China’s policy of forcibly repatriating North Korean refugees is a clear violation of international law, including the 1951 UN Refugee Convention, of which China is not a party. The reluctance to tackle this issue with North Korea is due to Chinese concerns over the potential for instability within its borders. North Korean activists now live in the shadows or in exile, for fear of being arrested in China and forcibly returned to their home country, where they will face torture or even execution.”
Despite this criticism, China still continues to police its border and forcibly repatriate an estimated 300 refugees each year. Moreover, China has also cracked down on NGOs and refugee assistance networks in Southeast Asia, resulting in a significant decrease in the number of programs and assistance available.
Failing International Support
At present, both the degree of attention devoted to this issue by the international community and the amount of support available are inadequate. Current U.N. efforts to provide assistance to defectors are limited, with inadequate reserves and funds often leading to a situation in which only a fraction of those in need receive help.
South Korea also remains one of the few nations willing to offer refuge to North Koreans, yet there have been no substantive policy changes or efforts to address the wider issue. Faced with its own economic struggle and rising xenophobia, South Korea has a long way to go before it starts providing more comprehensive protection to North Koreans.
Abroad, diaspora communities have recently become an important avenue for potential defectors. With the Chinese-Korean border becoming increasingly stringent, North Koreans have been attempting new routes out of their country in recent years, often relying on the help of family and friends based in other countries. Yet, this option is also decided on a case-by-case basis, and support is often limited and difficult to access.
Education and Outreach
Nevertheless, education and outreach remain two of the most effective ways to assist those attempting to defect from North Korea. In this regard, programmes such as Teach North Korean Refugees and Now Action Walk Organisation are making concerted efforts to inform and engage North Korean refugees, providing specialised materials and offerings to aid their successful integration in the receiving societies.
Through a combination of workshops, classes, and events these organisations are raising awareness of the North Korean refugee experience, and providing further support for graduates and alumni to become part of a larger, more informed global community.
Ultimately, civilians are the ones risking their lives to escape North Korea, and therefore it is essential to continue striving for better education and awareness on this compelling issue. By furthering international cooperation and increasing the rights of North Korean refugees, we remain hopeful that fewer and fewer will hesitate to risk their lives in search of a better future.
