Hebei Province Grants Temporary Residency to Defectors

A New Opportunity for North Korean Defectors in China: Temporary Residency Permits

Police in parts of China’s Hebei Province are now offering temporary residency permits to North Korean defectors who have been living in China for over a decade, as reported by Daily NK. The permits, issued by local authorities, allow defectors to stay in China legally and move freely within the country.

To obtain the permit, defectors must prove their long-term residency in China and provide personal information and a character reference from a Chinese citizen. Despite the new opportunity, many defectors are wary of the permits, fearing they could be used against them for repatriation to North Korea.

While some defectors see the permits as a step towards stability, others believe the risks outweigh the benefits. Until the Chinese government grants full residency status, many defectors remain uncertain about their future and continue to hope for a safe passage to South Korea.

Concerns and Hopes for North Korean Defectors in China

As defectors grapple with the decision to apply for temporary residency permits, the future remains uncertain. Some see the permits as a lifeline, while others fear the potential repercussions. The desire for a safe path to freedom and security in South Korea remains strong among defectors in Hebei Province.