U.S. Department of State Submits First Report on North Korean Defectors to Congress

The U.S. Department of State recently submitted its first report on the present situation of, and policies toward, North Korean defectors to Congress, Dong-A Ilbo confirmed Thursday.

According to the report, based on associated provisions under the North Korean Human Rights Act, which was implemented in October of last year, the number of North Korean defectors in China decreased from 75,000-125,000 in 2000 to the present level of 30,000-50,000, and female defectors are reportedly the target of human trafficking or engaging in prostitution.

U.S. representatives consisting of officials from the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security visited Seoul and Beijing from January 31 to February 4 to discuss the necessary procedures to officially accept them to the U.S. as defectors.

North Korean defectors were easily seen in many cities in China, the report explained, but most defectors are now hiding for fear of being repatriated to North Korea after the U.S. bill was enacted.

Soon-Taek Kwon maypole@donga.com