North Korean soldier pretends to hunt deserter, successfully defects to South Korea

A North Korean soldier in his 20s crossed the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) into South Korea in the Goseong area of Gangwon Province on August 20. According to reports, the soldier deceived North Korean border guards by claiming he was pursuing a deserter, allowing him to evade surveillance and successfully defect.

Channel A reported on August 21 that the soldier, identified as a sergeant, made his escape on foot, navigating a narrow path near the East Coast.

A government source revealed that the defector was nearly caught several times by North Korean guards, but managed to avoid suspicion by pretending to be on a mission to capture a fellow deserter. The soldier reportedly stated to South Korean authorities that this ruse allowed him to avoid being followed by North Korean forces as he made his way to the South.

The defector also cited worsening conditions in North Korea as the primary reason for his escape. “Many North Koreans are starving to death,” he reportedly said, indicating that the dire economic situation had influenced his decision to flee.

Additionally, intelligence officials revealed that the soldier mentioned his former unit had been disbanded, with those who had wealth and connections being reassigned to better positions. The defector expressed frustration over the unfair treatment, which he said contributed to his decision to leave.

The Wall Street Journal also reported on the incident on August 20, noting that North Koreans continue to find “creative” ways to escape the oppressive regime.

South Korean military authorities have handed the defector over to relevant agencies, which are currently investigating the circumstances of his defection and the details of his journey south.

BY HYESEON CHAE, YOUNGNAM KIM [chae.hyeseon@joongang.co.kr]