Four North Koreans were apprehended while attempting to defect to South Korea in a small wooden boat from Hwadae County, North Hamgyong Province. They were intercepted by a maritime patrol vessel after authorities received a tip about their plans. The boat malfunctioned, preventing their escape, leading to their arrest.
Among the arrested, three were family members, and the fourth, an experienced seaman and captain, had previously worked in fisheries. During their interrogation, they expressed severe economic hardship as the primary reason for their defection attempt. They reported being overworked and struggling to make ends meet, with one individual citing pressure from a work brigade as a catalyst for his decision to flee.
Following the incident, North Korean security agents criticized the defectors, highlighting the widespread suffering in the country. The case has reportedly reached Pyongyang, and the four individuals may face imprisonment in a political camp. In response, authorities have increased coastal surveillance and inspections of fishing boats.
Officials have been instructed to remain silent about the incident to prevent public unrest, yet rumors have circulated among local fishery workers regarding the attempted defection.
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