Residents in Hyesan, a city on the China-North Korea border, are envious of recent defectors to South Korea, a source in Ryanggang province revealed. The border residents long for the freedom that the defectors experienced, especially with the strict restrictions and surveillance in place. Smuggling, once prevalent in the area, has drastically decreased due to the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened government control, making defection a dangerous prospect.
The news of defections to South Korea on Aug. 8 and 20 has stirred envy among residents, who feel trapped and hopeless in their current situation. With the ban on smuggling causing hardships, many aspire to leave like the defectors. The source highlighted the growing desire to defect as life becomes more challenging under intensified crackdowns and restrictions.
The recent defections, including one by a uniformed North Korean soldier, have sparked discussions among residents about the possibility of escaping to Kangwon or South Hwanghae provinces. The future seems bleak for many, leading them to believe that leaving North Korea is their only hope. The longing for freedom and a better life outside the country is becoming increasingly prevalent among border residents.
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