Settling in Seoul: How have you changed 10 years after escaping North Korea? | NK News
NK News Logo
November 22, 2024
NK News is hiring
Ask A North Korean

Settling in Seoul: How have you changed 10 years after escaping North Korea?

Without friends or family, one defector reached a breaking point before resolving to build a life he could be proud of

“Settling in Seoul” is an NK News series in which North Korean defectors share their experiences adapting to life in South Korea.

David — who was born and raised in North Korea and lived there until he defected in 2012 — writes about his first decade in South Korea, how he overcame extreme loneliness, graduated college and built a life he is proud of. 

Become a member for less
than $5.75 per week.

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
  • Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
  • Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now

All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.