It was later discovered that over ten North Korean defectors attempting to reach South Korea from China were arrested by Chinese authorities earlier this month.
According to a report by Daily NK on July 22, citing local sources in China, “More than 10 North Korean defectors who set out for South Korea were detained by Chinese authorities near the border of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.”
The report indicated that the arrest occurred after a Chinese husband of one of the female defectors reported them to the authorities.
The woman, who had escaped her home with her child, fathered by the Chinese man, was attempting to flee to South Korea. Upon discovering their disappearance, the husband immediately notified the public security bureau.
Subsequently, the authorities swiftly initiated a pursuit, eventually capturing the woman along with other defectors. They are currently being held in prison.
Sources revealed that news of the arrest has left the North Korean defector community in dismay. Some criticize the broker for gathering such a large group at once, accusing them of neglecting the safety of the defectors in pursuit of profit.
“It is highly likely that all the defectors arrested will be repatriated to North Korea,” one source said. “Recently, there have been rumors circulating within China that any attempt to reach South Korea will result in immediate repatriation. Indeed, since the beginning of the year, defectors caught trying to reach South Korea have been sent back.”
Despite the dangers of repatriation, the number of defectors attempting to flee to South Korea is increasing. Sources attribute this to the intensified surveillance and control by Chinese authorities, coupled with the desire to escape a life filled with anxiety and fear. Many are willing to risk their lives for a chance to reach South Korea.
Additionally, a source mentioned that some defectors feel they must attempt the journey now, fearing that the route to South Korea may be permanently closed in the future. The source explained that living without legal status in China, they face restrictions on movement and inadequate access to medical care. “They believe they cannot endure such a prison-like existence for a lifetime and are taking the perilous journey to South Korea,” the source added.
BY SUYOUNG HA, YOUNGNAM KIM [ha.suyoung@joongang.co.kr]
