When I first heard the news about North Korean troops deserting the Ukraine frontline days after their arrival, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief for those soldiers. Honestly, I wasn’t surprised at all. I mean, who wouldn’t take this golden opportunity to escape the oppressive regime of North Korea and seek asylum in a free country like Ukraine or even beyond, in Europe?
The fact that only 18 out of 10,000 troops have deserted so far might seem like a small number, but it’s still significant considering the circumstances. These soldiers were basically given a chance to break free from the chains of their totalitarian government, and it’s only natural that some of them would seize that opportunity.… Continue reading
The recent news of a defector stealing a village bus to return to North Korea, citing the difficult life in the South, has sparked a range of emotions and reflections. It’s a complex issue that sheds light on the challenges faced by those who have defected from North Korea to start anew in the South, only to find themselves struggling to adapt to a society vastly different from what they have known.
The story of the defector contemplating suicide due to the stress of studying in South Korea is a poignant reminder of the immense pressure and difficulties faced by North Korean defectors trying to integrate into a society that is highly competitive and often discriminatory towards them.… Continue reading
I can vividly remember my time in Alicante, surrounded by a mix of locals and expats, but never did I think that the city would become a hub for such nefarious activities. The recent news of gunmen sent by Moscow targeting and killing a defector who was seeking shelter in Alicante is truly disturbing. It raises questions about the safety and security of individuals who choose to speak out against oppressive regimes. The fact that this heinous act was reportedly orchestrated by Russian intelligence services further highlights the lengths to which some governments are willing to go to silence dissent.
The implications of this targeted killing extend far beyond just one individual.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker