North Korean defectors report highest-ever life satisfaction in 2024: Survey | NK News
NK News Logo
December 28, 2024

NK News is hiring

News

North Korean defectors report highest-ever life satisfaction in 2024: Survey

But ROK government also finds rising unemployment among female escapees, underscoring persistent economic challenges

North Korean escapees living in South Korea reported their highest-ever life satisfaction rate in 2024, according to an annual government survey released Friday, even as the rising unemployment rate among female defectors underlined persistent economic challenges.

Data gathered by the Hana Foundation found that 79.6% of escapees are satisfied with life in the ROK this year, up from 79.3% last year, 77.4% in 2022​ and 75.1% in 2021.

Try unlimited access
Only $1 for four weeks

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • Year-one discount if you continue past $1 trial period
  • 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.