North Koreans are increasingly seeking jobs at food processing plants for guaranteed food rations and wages, leading to a rise in bribery costs for these sought-after positions. Amid increased production at factories, job corruption is escalating, according to sources in Pyongyang.
One plant, the Kumsong Food Processing Plant, located in Pyongyang’s Mangyongdae District, has become highly desirable due to steady food supplies for workers. As North Korean authorities emphasize food production to elevate living standards, more people are eager to work at these plants.
With a monthly wage of KWP 300,000 to 400,000 and additional benefits, the competition to secure a position at the Kumsong Food Processing Plant has intensified, resulting in higher bribe amounts demanded by the labor department. Workers are willing to pay substantial sums to secure coveted jobs at the factory.
Bribes Facilitate Recruitment at the Factory
Despite limited job choices, individuals resort to bribes and influence to secure preferred roles. As benefits at food processing plants improve, the demand for bribes to enter the Kumsong Food Processing Plant has surged, with bribes amounting to hundreds of dollars for different positions.
Source: Daily NK