South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol vowed not to forget North Koreans suffering in the North, ensuring that no defector will be sent back regardless of circumstances. He made these statements during the first North Korean Defectors’ Day celebration on July 14 at the Blue House in Seoul.
The day was established in January at a Cabinet meeting, with Yoon criticizing North Korea’s inhumane border policies. He emphasized that steps toward freedom would not be stifled and promised support for defectors settling in South Korea.
Interviews with North Korean citizens revealed contrasting views on Yoon’s speech: one found hope and reassurance, while the other saw it as a threat to the regime. Yoon’s commitment to offering comprehensive support to defectors was met with gratitude and skepticism.
Yoon’s pledge to prevent forced repatriations of defectors overseas was met with hope for a better life outside North Korea and skepticism from officials. Despite differing opinions, the enactment of North Korean Defectors’ Day was seen as a positive gesture by some and a divisive tactic by others.
Overall, Yoon’s bold stance on North Korean defectors drew mixed reactions, highlighting the complex challenges facing both the Korean Peninsula and the people living there.