Human Rights Chief: "Prejudice Against Defectors Persists... Culture of Inclusion Needed"

Statement Issued on Third North Korean Defectors' Day

34,500 Defectors... "State Must Share Responsibility"

Ahn Changho, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, emphasized the need to reduce prejudice and discrimination against North Korean defectors and to build a society of respect and inclusion.

On July 14, in a statement marking North Korean Defectors' Day, Chairperson Ahn said, "We must remember the courage of defectors who, in search of freedom and dignity, have undertaken a difficult journey and now live as members of South Korean society." He added, "Public attention and support are needed so that the courage and hope of defectors can lead to greater solidarity."

Ahn Changho, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

He particularly noted that ensuring the human rights of defectors is not a form of charity toward a specific group, but a key indicator of the overall level of human rights and democratic maturity in our society. Chairperson Ahn reiterated, "The state and society must fulfill their collective responsibilities to help defectors settle securely in unfamiliar environments and enjoy their rights without discrimination."

The National Human Rights Commission pointed out that social prejudice against defectors still persists. According to a 2025 survey on the status of North Korean defectors by the South-North Hana Foundation, 14.0% of respondents said they had experienced discrimination or disregard over the past year because they are defectors. Although this figure has decreased compared to the previous year, the Commission explained that cases of everyday discrimination continue due to differences in cultural communication styles and negative perceptions.

Chairperson Ahn also stated that, regarding the government's recent discussion of changing the official term for "North Korean defectors," the opinions of the individuals concerned must be fully reflected. On July 1, the Commission recommended to the Minister of Unification that, should the government consider changing the official legal term for North Korean defectors, it must ensure procedural fairness by sufficiently gathering the opinions of the concerned individuals and conducting a public deliberation process.

Chairperson Ahn stated, "Through the experiences shared by defectors, we must also maintain ongoing attention to the human rights situation of North Korean residents," adding, "We will continue our efforts to prevent human rights violations and discrimination, and to strengthen remedies so that defectors can enjoy their rights free from discrimination and live with peace of mind."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.